If you are craving a cozy, comforting dish that bursts with rich, creamy flavors, this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender ground beef with earthy mushrooms and a luscious sour cream sauce, this meal delivers hearty satisfaction in just about 30 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels a little special but comes together easily, making it one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes. You’ll love how every bite is loaded with warmth and depth, ensuring this dish quickly becomes a household staple.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to deliver maximum flavor and perfect texture. Each item plays its part: the beef brings hearty richness, mushrooms add earthiness and depth, and the sour cream creates that classic creamy sauce that makes stroganoff so comforting.

1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a rich and savory base without excess fat to keep things balanced.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a velvety richness essential for sautéing the aromatics.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and depth that enhances the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a punch of fragrant flavor that elevates every bite.
8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, meaty texture that complements the beef perfectly.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that iconic stroganoff consistency.
1 1/2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory liquid base that ties all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle tangy and umami kick for depth.
1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy heart of the sauce, delivering tanginess and silkiness.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a splash of fresh color and a mild herbal note.
8 ounces egg noodles, cooked: The classic comfort food base that soaks up every bit of the luscious sauce.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart. After the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy. This step forms the hearty foundation of your stroganoff, making sure the meat is flavorful and tender.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, toss in the finely chopped onions. Sauté them over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn translucent and soft, releasing their natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic, cooking it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—to avoid bitterness. These aromatics build layers of flavor that make the sauce irresistible.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

Now it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them down for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and have released their earthy juices. This adds not only amazing texture but also that deeply savory essence that makes stroganoff so comforting.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom and beef mixture, stirring to coat everything well. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste and start thickening your future sauce. This step ensures your stroganoff will have that perfectly creamy and luscious texture.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add in the Worcestershire sauce for a hint of tang and richness. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully and all the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream

Reduce the heat to low before stirring in the sour cream. Mix it gently until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Be careful not to boil the sauce once the sour cream is added to prevent curdling. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting to your liking. This step transforms your stroganoff into the rich, velvety dish that everyone loves.

Step 7: Serve

Finally, spoon the hot, creamy beef stroganoff generously over a bed of tender cooked egg noodles. Make sure every noodle is coated with that luscious sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a lovely pop of color and freshness. At this point, dinner is ready to impress!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Garnishes

While fresh parsley is the classic choice, feel free to add a little extra flair with a sprinkle of paprika for color or even a few shaved Parmesan cheese flakes. These simple touches add brightness and an extra dimension of flavor to your Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe, making it as visually inviting as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete with the stroganoff’s richness. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans provide a healthy crunch. Garlic bread on the side is always a winner if you want to soak up every last drop of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate your presentation, try serving the Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe in individual shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel. Alternatively, for a family-style meal, use a large serving platter where everyone can help themselves. You can also get creative by topping with sautéed mushrooms or a dollop of sour cream before serving for that extra indulgent touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and to avoid condensation that might water down the sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Portion the stroganoff into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Just keep in mind the texture of mushrooms may soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the stroganoff in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can unevenly heat the dish and affect texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning, as turkey has a milder flavor than beef.

Is it okay to substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative and will still provide creaminess and tang, though it’s best to stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce and double-check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free brands.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal because of their meaty texture and robust flavor, but you could also use white button mushrooms if needed.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it for a dinner party?

Yes, Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe can be made a day ahead and reheated gently on the stove before serving. It’s even better when the flavors have had time to meld overnight!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is one of those classic dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough to serve to guests. I encourage you to give it a try, savoring every creamy, savory bite that’s bursting with flavor. Once you make it, I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your home too.