Ground Beef Stroganoff

A comforting, creamy skillet pasta dish made with seasoned ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and a rich sour cream sauce served over egg noodles. Ground Beef Stroganoff is a budget-friendly and faster version of traditional beef stroganoff, making it ideal for busy weeknights while still delivering deep savory flavor.

Description

Ground Beef Stroganoff combines tender egg noodles with browned ground beef in a creamy mushroom sauce flavored with garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sour cream. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal with a silky texture and rich umami flavor.

This version takes about 30–35 minutes from start to finish and uses simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook egg noodles according to package directions.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned.
• Drain excess grease if necessary.
• Transfer beef to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same skillet, melt butter.
• Add onions and mushrooms.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir well.
• Cook for 1 minute.
• Slowly whisk in beef broth.
• Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

• Return beef to skillet.
• Reduce heat to low.
• Stir in sour cream until smooth.
• Do not boil after adding sour cream to avoid curdling.

Step 6: Combine

• Add cooked noodles and toss gently.
• Garnish with parsley.
• Serve warm.

Recipe Notes

• Full-fat sour cream gives the creamiest texture.
• Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
• Mushrooms add authentic stroganoff flavor but may be omitted if preferred.
• Adding a splash of heavy cream creates an extra luxurious sauce.

Helpful Tips

For Best Flavor

• Brown the beef well for deeper flavor.
• Use beef broth instead of water.
• Let mushrooms caramelize slightly before adding liquids.

To Prevent Curdling

• Lower heat before adding sour cream.
• Stir continuously while incorporating dairy.

• Texture Tips

• Slightly undercook noodles if mixing directly into sauce.

• Add extra broth if reheating leftovers.

Servings

• Makes: 4–6 servings

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving based on 6 servings)

Health Benefits

Protein-Rich

Ground beef provides protein that supports muscle maintenance and energy.

Comforting and Filling

The balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates makes this meal satisfying and sustaining.

Mushroom Benefits

Mushrooms contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune health.

Calcium Source

Sour cream contributes small amounts of calcium for bone support.

Variations

Healthier Version

• Use ground turkey instead of beef.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt.
• Use whole wheat noodles.

Extra Creamy

• Add cream cheese or heavy cream.

Low-Carb Option

• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Spicy Twist

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Best frozen before adding noodles.

Reheating

• Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce ahead and cook noodles fresh before serving.

Can I freeze stroganoff?

Yes, though dairy sauces may separate slightly after thawing. Stir well while reheating.

What mushrooms work best?

White button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are excellent choices.

Can I use another pasta?

Absolutely. Rotini, penne, or fettuccine work well.

Why did my sauce curdle?

Usually from high heat after adding sour cream. Keep the sauce warm, not boiling.

What side dishes pair well?

• Garlic bread
• Green beans
• Roasted vegetables
• Side salad

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff with:

• Buttered green peas
• Fresh salad
• Crusty bread
• Pickles for contrast