This easy ground beef stroganoff is creamy and hearty, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. With tender beef and mushrooms in a rich sauce, it pairs perfectly with noodles or rice!
I love how quickly this dish comes together—just brown the beef, add some spices, and stir in the sauce. No one can say no to that creamy goodness! Plus, it warms you right up. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I opt for lean ground beef to keep it hearty yet not too greasy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken ground meat works well too. Just be aware that it may cook faster.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add wonderful flavor and texture. If mushrooms are not your thing, you can leave them out or use canned mushrooms. Just make sure to rinse them well if they are canned to avoid extra salt.
Sour Cream: This gives the sauce that classic creamy texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use Greek yogurt or a non-dairy sour cream alternative. Just add it slowly to adjust for tanginess.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought is very convenient. Low-sodium broth is a nice choice if you’re watching salt intake. Vegetable broth can be a good substitute for a lighter flavor.
How Do I Get the Sauce to Be Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a creamy stroganoff sauce is in the way you mix the ingredients. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After cooking the ground beef, make sure to sprinkle the flour evenly and stir quickly to coat the meat and mushrooms. This helps to prevent lumps in your sauce.
- Pour in the beef broth slowly while stirring constantly. This keeps the sauce smooth and helps it thicken well.
- Don’t rush adding the sour cream! Remove the pan from heat before mixing in the sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust with salt, pepper, or even a dash more Worcestershire to really bring out the flavors.
Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or pasta of choice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
First, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. They’ll be ready for that delicious stroganoff sauce!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. This will give your dish a lovely base flavor!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, you can drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Next, stir in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften and release their moisture. They’ll add a nice earthy flavor to the stroganoff.
5. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and mushroom mixture, stirring well to coat everything. Let it cook for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Then, slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, ensuring everything combines smoothly.
6. Season the Mixture:
Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally!
7. Stir in the Sour Cream:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; this step really brings out all the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your delicious stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your comforting and tasty meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Mushrooms?
If mushrooms aren’t your favorite, you can simply leave them out or substitute them with diced bell peppers or zucchini for added vegetables. Alternatively, canned mushrooms can work too; just remember to rinse them well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff ahead of time! Just follow the recipe instructions, but stop before adding the sour cream. Refrigerate the mixture for up to 2 days, then reheat gently on the stove before stirring in the sour cream.