Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Comforting Classic for Any Night of the Week


  • Author: Charlotte B.

Description

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, creamy bowl of Ground Beef Stroganoff. It’s one of those timeless comfort foods that instantly transports you to cozy family dinners around the table. This dish, with its rich, velvety sauce and tender beef, has been a staple in many households for generations. Whether you grew up eating the classic version or are just discovering it now, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a fantastic way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of traditional Beef Stroganoff but with a quicker and more budget-friendly approach. Instead of using expensive cuts of beef, this recipe relies on ground beef, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles makes this dish a winner for the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, so you can always make it your own.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for about 3 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the paprika over the beef mixture and stir well. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add the Creamy Finish

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be sure to mix it in gently so it doesn’t curdle.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Notes

  • Choosing the Right Ground Beef – Using a leaner ground beef (such as 85/15 or 90/10) helps reduce excess grease, making the dish lighter while still flavorful. If using higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain the grease before adding the other ingredients.
  • Mushroom Options – While white button mushrooms work great, you can also use cremini or baby bella mushrooms for a deeper, more robust flavor.
  • Dairy Alternatives – If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich alternative.
  • Boosting the Flavor – A dash of smoked paprika can add a little extra depth to the dish, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the creaminess.
  • Serving Suggestions – While egg noodles are classic, this dish is also fantastic over mashed potatoes, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  • Make It a One-Pot Meal – If you prefer fewer dishes, cook the noodles directly in the sauce by adding extra beef broth and letting them simmer until tender.
  • Don’t Overheat the Sour Cream – Adding sour cream at too high a temperature may cause it to curdle. Always stir it in over low heat for the best creamy consistency.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins – Feel free to mix in extra vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers to add more nutrition and color to the dish.