If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious creamy sauce, every bite melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with fluffy rice. It’s one of those classic dishes that brings the family together around the table—and the best part is how simple it is to prepare without sacrificing any of that deep, savory flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe leans on simple, accessible ingredients that work in harmony to create the rich, satisfying flavors and textures that make Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe so beloved. Each component is vital, from the juicy ground beef to the creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully.

Ground beef (1 pound): The main protein that provides juicy, flavorful base for this stroganoff.
Yellow onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and cooks down.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
Sliced mushrooms (8 ounces): Offer an earthy balance and tender bite; white or cremini both work great.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce, giving it that perfect creamy consistency.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a hint of warmth and subtle smokiness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every flavor on your palate without overpowering.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a little kick and complexity.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the savory notes with a tangy touch.
Beef broth (1 ½ cups): The simmering liquid that melds all ingredients together into luscious sauce.
Sour cream (½ cup): Creates the creamy, velvety texture essential to stroganoff.
Cream cheese (2 tablespoons, optional): For extra rich creaminess that makes this dish irresistible.
Cooked white rice (3 cups): The fluffy, neutral base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): A bright green garnish to finish with freshness and color.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it browns fully, breaking it up as it cooks so you get those lovely little crumbles. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat for a less greasy dish. Toss in your diced onion, letting it soften and bring a natural sweetness that builds the flavor from the ground up. Follow this with minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, stirring as the mushrooms cook down and their moisture evaporates, concentrating their earthy flavor. This stage creates the hearty foundation of your stroganoff.

Step 2: Build Your Sauce with Flour and Spices

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture, along with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so the flour coats the ingredients, then cook it all together for about a minute to get rid of any raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce later. Next, pour in Worcestershire sauce for a tangy depth, and gradually add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer—it’s when the sauce starts to thicken and flavors really merge beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Finish

Once your sauce has thickened perfectly (about 5-7 minutes of simmering), reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the sour cream and cream cheese if you’re using it. This transformation makes your sauce irresistibly smooth and creamy, tying together the savory, tangy, and rich elements. Let it all simmer another couple of minutes to meld these flavors perfectly, then remove from heat. Trust me, this creamy finish is what makes this Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe so crave-worthy!

Step 4: Serve Over Rice

Take your freshly cooked, fluffy white rice and plate a generous helping of the stroganoff on top. The rice is the perfect vehicle to soak up all that creamy, saucy goodness, making each forkful comforting and satisfying.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the top brings a pop of green and a subtle hint of brightness that contrasts the richness of the stove-cooked beef and sauce. You can even add a little cracked black pepper for a bit of extra punch. These finishing touches elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans. The freshness and crunch balance the creamy texture perfectly, making your meal both comforting and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or atop baked potato halves for a bit of variety. You might also sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese over the top right before serving for a cheesy finish that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover stroganoff and rice to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, separate the stroganoff from the rice for best results. Freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Rice can be frozen separately as well but may lose some texture upon thawing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it as you warm it up. This will revive the creamy consistency and keep the dish delicious.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that still taste wonderful in this stroganoff. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they can cook faster and may need a bit less fat to be drained off.

What if I don’t have cream cheese—can I leave it out?

Yes, cream cheese is optional and primarily adds extra creaminess. If you don’t have it, the sour cream alone is enough to make the sauce luscious and smooth.

Can I freeze the entire Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe together?

It’s best to freeze the stroganoff and rice separately, as rice may get mushy or dry out during freezing and reheating. This way, you can maintain the best texture for both components.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or gluten-free flour blends.

Can I add vegetables to the Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe?

Definitely! Frozen peas, spinach, or even bell peppers can be stirred in at the end of cooking to incorporate extra nutrients and color, boosting both texture and visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe is a comforting classic made simple without sacrificing any of that rich, creamy goodness that makes it a family favorite in many households. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or craving a cozy meal, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your go-to comfort food too!