Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This dish combines tender ground beef with a creamy mushroom sauce over egg noodles or rice, making it a hearty meal for families and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to impress your guests, this recipe has got you covered. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, Ground Beef Stroganoff is not only delicious but also adaptable; you can easily customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables. So let’s dive into the world of savory sauces and tender meat as we create this delightful dish that will surely become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying rich flavors in the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Fresh button mushrooms work best; slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop it for better incorporation into the sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; it’s essential in creating that savory taste.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while providing moisture and flavor.
- Sour Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its creamy texture; opt for full-fat for richer flavor.
- Egg Noodles: Cooked al dente, they serve as the perfect base for this hearty sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor; just a tablespoon goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste.
- Dijon Mustard: A teaspoon provides subtle tanginess that complements the creaminess of the sour cream.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned all over, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about five minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until softened and translucent (approximately five minutes). Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook down slightly for about five minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream
Reduce heat to low before stirring in sour cream until fully combined. Let it warm through but do not allow it to boil; this takes about two minutes.
Step 6: Serve over Noodles
Serve your Ground Beef Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice for an elegant touch. Transfer to plates and garnish as desired.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
This Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef stroganoff sauce in advance. Cook it up to two days before serving, allowing it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish, where it will remain good for about two months. Make sure to label the containers with dates for easy tracking.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the stroganoff in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 10-15 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also use a microwave; heat on medium power, stirring every minute until warm.
Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Use the Right Cut of Beef
One common mistake when making Ground Beef Stroganoff is choosing the wrong cut of meat. While ground beef is essential, not all ground beef is created equal. Opt for lean ground beef with a good fat content, ideally around 80/20. This balance ensures that your stroganoff remains juicy without being overly greasy. Avoid using extra-lean ground beef, as it may dry out during cooking and lack flavor. Remember, the quality of the beef directly impacts the overall taste of your dish. So, take a moment to choose wisely!
Don’t Skip the Sautéing Step
Another frequent oversight in preparing Ground Beef Stroganoff is skipping the sautéing step for onions and mushrooms. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavors and adds depth to your dish. Sautéing these ingredients until they are golden brown caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in richer flavors. If you rush this process or skip it altogether, you may end up with a bland stroganoff. Make sure to take your time here; it pays off with every delicious bite.
Be Cautious with Seasoning
Improper seasoning can ruin even the best Ground Beef Stroganoff. Many cooks underestimate the power of salt and pepper in enhancing flavors. Start with a light hand when adding salt, as you can always add more later, but removing it is impossible once it’s in. Additionally, consider incorporating other spices such as garlic powder or paprika to elevate the dish’s profile further. Taste frequently as you cook to ensure that each layer of flavor builds beautifully for a memorable meal.
Choose Your Noodles Wisely
Selecting the right type of noodles is vital for a successful Ground Beef Stroganoff. Traditional recipes often call for egg noodles due to their ability to hold onto sauce effectively, but feel free to explore alternatives like wide pasta or even zoodles if you’re looking for a low-carb option. The key is to ensure whatever noodle you choose complements the rich sauce without overpowering it. Pay attention to cooking times so that everything comes together perfectly and remains enjoyable.
FAQs
What can I substitute for sour cream in Ground Beef Stroganoff?
If you’re looking for an alternative to sour cream in Ground Beef Stroganoff, several options work well without compromising flavor or texture. Greek yogurt serves as an excellent substitute due to its creamy consistency and tangy flavor; just make sure to use plain yogurt without added sugars or flavors. You can also try cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk or buttermilk for that creamy richness—just blend until smooth before adding it to your stroganoff sauce.
Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time! To do this efficiently, cook your ingredients as usual but stop just before adding the sour cream or yogurt—this prevents curdling when reheating later. Allow your stroganoff to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container and refrigerating it for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove over low heat and add in your dairy component right before serving for optimal texture.
How do I store leftovers from Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Storing leftovers from your Ground Beef Stroganoff is simple and helps minimize waste while keeping your meal ready for future enjoyment! Allow any leftovers to cool down before placing them in an airtight container—this prevents moisture buildup which can lead to sogginess. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for longer storage (up to three months). When reheating frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the fridge before warming them on low heat.
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! While traditional Ground Beef Stroganoff calls for ground beef, you can easily switch it up based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Alternatives like ground turkey or chicken provide lower-fat options while still delivering great taste and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using lean pork or even plant-based meat substitutes like lentils or textured vegetable protein for vegetarian-friendly variations that are equally satisfying!
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff involves several key considerations that enhance both flavor and texture. Start by selecting high-quality ground beef and remember not to skip important steps like sautéing onions and mushrooms properly; this builds depth in flavor that elevates your dish significantly. Be cautious with seasoning, ensuring each bite is balanced without overwhelming your palate. Lastly, choosing the right noodles will ensure they hold onto that rich sauce beautifully! By following these tips along with answering common questions about preparation and storage, you’ll master this classic comfort food recipe every time you make it!

Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground beef with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this easy recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Served over egg noodles or rice, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz fresh button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- 1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- 2. Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms; sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- 3. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard; simmer for about five minutes.
- 4. Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream until combined; do not boil.
- 5. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms.- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.- Add vegetables like peas or spinach for enhanced nutrition.