Nothing beats a warm, creamy, and savory dish of ground beef stroganoff recipe for a satisfying dinner. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients like ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream into a rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you create the perfect beef stroganoff in no time. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4–6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (100g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten free option)
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes), breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
- Stir in diced onions and garlic; cook until soft (about 2 minutes).
- Add sliced mushrooms, cooking until they release moisture (about 3 minutes).
3️⃣ Make the Stroganoff Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat.
- Slowly add beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4️⃣ Finish with Sour Cream
- Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream, mixing until smooth.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes, but do not boil to avoid curdling.
5️⃣ Cook the Noodles & Serve
- While the sauce simmers, cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain well.
- Serve the stroganoff over noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
✅ For a richer flavor, use a splash of heavy cream instead of sour cream.
✅ Make it gluten free by using cornstarch instead of flour and serving over gluten free pasta or rice.
✅ Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
✅ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground beef stroganoff is a twist on the classic Russian beef stroganoff, which originally featured thinly sliced beef cooked in a creamy sauce. This version swaps steak for ground beef, making it more affordable, quicker to prepare, and just as delicious.
Typically, it’s served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it a hearty and comforting meal. With its rich mushroom gravy and tangy sour cream sauce, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.
A Brief History of Stroganoff: From Russia to America
The origins of beef stroganoff trace back to 19th century Russia, where it was named after the influential Stroganov family. Traditional recipes featured sautéed beef in a creamy mustard sauce, a dish that quickly gained popularity across Europe and America.
Over time, ground beef stroganoff emerged as a budget friendly adaptation, perfect for busy households. Today, it’s a beloved dish worldwide, enjoyed for its easy preparation and rich, comforting flavors.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
So, what makes this ground beef stroganoff recipe so special?
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Budget Friendly – Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- One Pan Meal – Fewer dishes, less mess.
- Versatile – Serve it with pasta, rice, or potatoes.
- Comforting & Creamy – The perfect homemade comfort food.
Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
A great dish starts with the right ingredients. Choosing high quality beef, fresh mushrooms, and the perfect seasonings will take your ground beef stroganoff recipe to the next level. Let’s break down what you need.
Essential Ingredients for a Classic Recipe
To create a creamy, savory stroganoff, you’ll need:
- Ground Beef – Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a rich flavor without excess grease.
- Onion – A diced yellow or white onion enhances the depth of flavor.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant, robust taste.
- Mushrooms – Cremini or button mushrooms work best for their earthy flavor.
- Beef Broth – Provides a deep, meaty base for the sauce.
- Sour Cream – The key to the classic creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a slight umami kick to the dish.
- Flour or Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce to perfection.
- Egg Noodles – The best base for serving stroganoff, but rice or mashed potatoes work too.
- Butter and Olive Oil – Enhance the richness and prevent sticking.
Best Type of Ground Beef for Stroganoff
While ground beef stroganoff can be made with any type of beef, lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works best. It keeps the dish flavorful without being too greasy. If you prefer extra lean ground beef (93/7), consider adding a little butter to maintain moisture.
Alternative Ingredients for a Healthier Version
Want to make it healthier? Try these swaps:
- Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
- Whole wheat noodles for more fiber.
- Low sodium broth to cut down on salt.
- Ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
Vegetarian and Vegan Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with:
- Lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
- Plant based sour cream for the creamy base.
- Vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Now that you have the perfect ingredients, let’s move on to cooking the dish step by step.
Step by Step Instructions – How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Now, let’s get into the fun part, cooking your stroganoff! This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with just one pan.
Preparing the Ingredients for Cooking
Before you start, it’s best to have everything chopped and measured:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Measure out the broth, sour cream, and seasonings.
Cooking the Ground Beef and Onions
- Warm a large skillet over medium heat, then drizzle in some olive oil.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in diced onions and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and aromatic.
Adding Mushrooms and Seasonings
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture (about 3 minutes).
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Making the Creamy Stroganoff Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stirring for 1 minute to coat everything.
- Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Bringing it All Together – Final Steps
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in sour cream until smooth.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes, ensuring the sauce doesn’t boil.
- Plate over egg noodles and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
💡 Pro Tip: For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
A rich and creamy ground beef stroganoff recipe pairs best with hearty sides that enhance its flavors. Whether you want something classic or a lighter option, here are some delicious pairings.
Classic Pairing: Egg Noodles vs. Other Pasta Options
Traditional egg noodles are the go to choice for ground beef stroganoff because they:
- Absorb the creamy sauce perfectly
- Have a soft yet firm texture
- Cook quickly in just minutes
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider:
- Fettuccine or tagliatelle – Adds a silky texture.
- Penne or rigatoni – Great for holding onto sauce.
- Whole wheat pasta – A healthier option with more fiber.
Mashed Potatoes or Rice – A Comforting Alternative
If you want extra comfort, try serving your ground beef stroganoff over:
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up sauce.
- White or brown rice – A great gluten free option with a neutral flavor.
- Cauliflower rice – A low carb choice for a healthier twist.
Vegetable Sides That Complement Stroganoff
Balance the richness of the stroganoff sauce with fresh and crisp vegetables:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans – Adds a pop of color and crunch.
- Roasted asparagus – A slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully.
- A simple side salad – Fresh greens with a light dressing help cut through the creaminess.
Bread Options: Dinner Rolls, Garlic Bread, or Biscuits
For those who love bread with their meals, consider:
- Fluffy dinner rolls – Perfect for scooping up the sauce.
- Garlic bread – Adds a buttery, garlicky crunch.
- Buttermilk biscuits – Soft, flaky, and delicious with every bite.
With these perfect sides, your ground beef stroganoff recipe will be even more enjoyable. Now, let’s explore some cooking tips to make it even better.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Stroganoff
Want to make your ground beef stroganoff recipe taste even better? Follow these expert cooking tips for a creamy, flavorful dish every time.
How to Make a Thick and Creamy Sauce
The secret to a perfect stroganoff sauce is in the texture. Here’s how to get it thick and creamy:
- Use full fat sour cream – Low-fat versions can be too runny.
- Add a cornstarch slurry – Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the sauce.
- Simmer, don’t boil – High heat can cause the sour cream to curdle.
Avoiding Common Mistakes in Cooking Stroganoff
Even the best cooks make mistakes! Avoid these common pitfalls:
❌ Overcooking the beef – It makes the meat tough and dry.
❌ Using too much flour – It can make the sauce too thick or pasty.
❌ Skipping the Worcestershire sauce – This adds a rich umami depth.
Making It in One Pot for Easy Cleanup
Want to save time on dishes? Make your ground beef stroganoff recipe in one pot:
- Brown the ground beef in a deep skillet.
- Cook the mushrooms and onions in the same pan.
- Stir in broth and seasonings, then simmer.
- Mix in sour cream and serve directly from the pot.
Tips for Adjusting the Flavor to Your Taste
Make your stroganoff uniquely yours with these easy adjustments:
- More tang? Add a splash of lemon juice or extra sour cream.
- Richer flavor? Use beef bouillon or add a little Parmesan cheese.
- Extra heat? Sprinkle in some paprika or red pepper flakes.
Variations of Ground Beef Stroganoff
A classic ground beef stroganoff recipe is always a winner, but why not switch things up? Whether you prefer a hands free slow cooker method, a quick Instant Pot version, or a healthier twist, these variations let you customize your dish.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
If you love set it and forget it meals, the slow cooker version is perfect. It allows the flavors to blend beautifully while you go about your day.
How to Make It in the Slow Cooker:
- Brown the ground beef in a pan, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Add sliced mushrooms, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Stir in sour cream before serving, and enjoy over noodles or rice!
💡 Pro Tip: For a thicker sauce, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water before adding the sour cream.
Instant Pot Method for Quick and Easy Cooking
Need dinner in a hurry? The Instant Pot version makes a creamy, delicious stroganoff in under 30 minutes!
Steps for Instant Pot Stroganoff:
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic until browned.
- Add beef broth, mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Lock the lid and set it to Pressure Cook (High) for 10 minutes.
- Do a quick release, then stir in sour cream and serve hot.
Dairy Free and Gluten Free Options
Want a healthier or allergy friendly version? Try these simple swaps:
- Dairy Free: Use coconut cream or dairy free yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Gluten Free: Substitute cornstarch for flour and serve over gluten free pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Low Carb: Enjoy your ground beef stroganoff recipe over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Low Carb and Keto Friendly Modifications
For those on a low carb or keto diet, try these changes:
✔ Use full fat cream cheese instead of sour cream.
✔ Skip the flour or cornstarch, let the sauce naturally thicken.
✔ Serve over shirataki noodles or steamed vegetables instead of pasta.
These fun variations allow you to enjoy ground beef stroganoff no matter your diet or cooking style. Now, let’s talk about the best ways to store and reheat your leftovers.
Nutritional Information for Ground Beef Stroganoff
If you’re wondering about the nutritional value of this delicious ground beef stroganoff recipe, here’s a breakdown of its calories, protein, and key nutrients per 100g serving.
Nutritional Content (Per 100g Serving)
Below is the nutritional breakdown for a standard ground beef stroganoff recipe made with 85/15 ground beef, sour cream, and egg noodles:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
How to Make It Healthier
Want a lighter version of this ground beef stroganoff recipe? Try these simple swaps:
✔ Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
✔ Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for more protein and less fat.
✔ Swap egg noodles for whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.
✔ Use low sodium broth to reduce salt intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many people have questions about making the perfect ground beef stroganoff recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions, along with their helpful answers.
Which cut of beef is best for making stroganoff?
For a ground beef stroganoff recipe, lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works best because it keeps the dish flavorful without being too greasy. If you’re making traditional beef stroganoff, opt for sirloin, ribeye, or beef tenderloin since they are tender and cook quickly.
Can I make ground beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to blend. To prepare ahead, cook the sauce and refrigerate it separately from the noodles. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook fresh noodles for the best texture.
How do I thicken my stroganoff sauce?
If your stroganoff sauce is too thin, try these quick fixes:
✔ Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the sauce and simmer.
✔ More sour cream: Adds thickness and creaminess.
✔ Simmer longer: Allow excess liquid to evaporate, naturally thickening the sauce.
What are some alternatives to sour cream in stroganoff?
If you don’t have sour cream or prefer a substitute, try:
- Greek yogurt – Offers a similar tangy flavor with more protein.
- Cream cheese – Creates a richer, slightly thicker sauce.
- Coconut cream – Works well for a dairy free version.
Looking for more comfort food recipes to complement your ground beef stroganoff recipe? Try pairing it with these delicious dishes:
- If you love hearty casseroles, check out this Chicken and Ritz Cracker Casserole for a rich, crunchy, and creamy dish.
- Want a healthier side dish? This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is a fresh and crunchy option to balance the creamy stroganoff.
- If you’re a fan of one pot meals, this Chicken and Rice Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a perfect way to switch up your dinner routine.
- Looking for another easy pasta dish? Try this White Lasagna Recipe for a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts on the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Making a delicious ground beef stroganoff recipe is easier than you think! Whether you prepare it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or with an Instant Pot, this classic dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes for a hassle free meal.
✔ One Pan Dish – Less mess, fewer dishes to clean.
✔ Versatile – Serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
✔ Family Friendly – A meal everyone will love.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to make this ground beef stroganoff recipe at home. Gather your ingredients, follow the step by step instructions, and enjoy a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal with your loved ones.