Stroganoff with Ground Beef

I’ve been hooked on beef stroganoff since I was a kid, when my mom would whip it up on chilly nights. The smell of savory beef and creamy sauce bubbling on the stove always felt like a warm hug. Now, as a busy adult, I’ve tweaked the classic recipe to use ground beef instead of strips, making it quicker, budget-friendly, and just as delicious. It’s my go-to when I’m craving comfort food that doesn’t take all evening to make.

What I love most about this dish is how it hits all the right spots—tender mushrooms, tangy sour cream, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in a way that’s pure magic. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. I’m thrilled to share my version, complete with tips to make it foolproof. Let’s get started and bring some cozy vibes to your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Brown the beef. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Remove beef to a plate and drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
3. Sauté the veggies. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes until mushrooms are golden and tender.
4. Make the sauce. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
5. Combine beef and sauce. Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir to coat in the sauce and heat through, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and gently stir in sour cream until smooth. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
6. Serve it up. Spoon the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Related Recipes:

Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Ground Beef and Potatoes

Pro Cooking Tips

• Choose the right beef. An 80/20 ground beef gives the best balance of flavor and juiciness without being too greasy.
• Don’t skip the mustard. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that elevates the sauce.
• Keep the sour cream cool. Stir it in over low heat to avoid curdling and ensure a creamy texture.
• Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper after adding the broth for perfect seasoning.

Variations

• Lighten it up: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat option.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and substitute cornstarch for flour.
• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick.

Storage Suggestions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze the beef mixture (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, then serve over freshly cooked noodles.
• Tip: Avoid freezing the sauce with sour cream, as it may separate. Add fresh sour cream when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve beef stroganoff hot over egg noodles for the classic experience. Pair it with a side of steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp side salad to balance the richness. For a cozy meal, add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Wide noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine work great, or try it over rice or mashed potatoes for a twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the beef mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and serve over freshly cooked noodles.

What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese thinned with a little milk can work as substitutes.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are a hit with kids. You can even sneak in extra veggies.

Can I use ground turkey instead?
Sure, ground turkey or chicken works well, though the flavor will be slightly milder.

Conclusion

Beef stroganoff with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food—quick, affordable, and bursting with flavor. With its creamy sauce and tender noodles, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to nail. Try the variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to savor every bite. Got leftovers? They’re just as tasty the next day. Whip this up for your next dinner, and I bet it’ll become a family favorite. Happy cooking!