Have you ever made a recipe so good that you couldn’t stop thinking about it? That’s exactly how I feel about this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe. The creamy, savory sauce paired with tender beef and hearty mushrooms makes it a dish to remember.

The first time I whipped this up, I was amazed at how quick and simple it was while still being full of flavor. If you love family-friendly meals, you’ll really enjoy trying dishes like this along with other recipes like Mongolian-style beef.

Ingredients You will Need

Making Ground Beef Stroganoff is easy when you have the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish, with some tips to make each item count.

1 Tbsp olive oil – Helps the beef brown nicely without sticking to the pan.
1 lb lean ground beef – I recommend using 90% lean beef to avoid excess grease in the sauce.
1/2 medium onion, diced – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 lb mushrooms, sliced – Fresh mushrooms work best as they provide the right texture and flavor. Steer clear of canned mushrooms!
2 garlic cloves, minced – Always mince fresh garlic for the most vibrant taste.
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
1 cup beef broth – Creates a rich base for the sauce; use low-sodium broth to control salt.
1 cup heavy whipping cream – Gives the dish its signature creamy texture. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
1/3 cup sour cream – Enhances the tanginess and creaminess of the sauce.
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a layer of savory umami flavor.
1/2 tsp salt – Adjust to your taste. Go lighter if your broth is salted.
1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground pepper makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Note: This recipe serves 4-6 people depending on portion sizes.

Variations to Try

Want to customize your Ground Beef Stroganoff? Here are a few easy variations to suit your diet or spice preferences.

Dairy-Free – Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free sour cream alternatives.
Low-Carb – Skip the traditional starches and serve the stroganoff over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Vegetarian-Friendly – Replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or extra mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Extra Spicy – Add red chili flakes or smoked paprika for a flavorful twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need to make this tasty dish:

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

Equipment You Need

Large skillet or Dutch oven – Perfect for cooking the beef and simmering the sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir and scrape the pan during cooking.
Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping onions, mushrooms, and garlic.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accuracy for seasoning and sauce proportions.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a rich and creamy comfort dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines savory beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that will leave you craving more. Follow these simple steps to create this classic dish at home.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by preheating your skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir them into the beef and cook until the onion becomes golden and translucent. This step builds the foundation of the dish’s flavor.

Step 3: Stir in Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them with the beef mixture for around 5 minutes. The mushrooms should soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Add Flour and Broth

Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring well to eliminate any clumps. Slowly pour in the beef broth while continuing to stir. This will create a thickened, flavorful base for the stroganoff.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

Combine the heavy whipping cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Mix everything well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Lower the heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the sour cream. This final step makes the sauce extra creamy and tangy. Your stroganoff is now ready to be served!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Always strain excess grease if using beef with a higher fat content. No one likes an oily sauce!
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Use freshly cracked pepper instead of pre-ground for a sharper flavor boost.
Mealtime hectic? Prep your ingredients earlier in the day to speed up the cooking process.
Add a handful of grated parmesan for a cheesy upgrade to the dish!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

This stroganoff shines when served over buttery egg noodles, but it pairs just as well with fluffy mashed potatoes, white rice, or even quinoa. For lighter options, serve it atop roasted spaghetti squash or steamed green beans.

Garnish with plenty of fresh parsley or dill for a vibrant finish. If you enjoy versatile chicken dishes, you’ll also love trying this delightful chicken piccata recipe, which pairs beautifully with similar sides and sauces.

Nutritional Information

This hearty meal is as nourishing as it is comforting. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on typical portions):

Calories: 340
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 24g

How to Store Ground Beef Stroganoff

Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Bulk-prep and freeze the sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm leftovers over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to preserve the creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish is a winner.

Easy to Make – It’s simple enough for weekdays but tasty enough for guests.
Budget-Friendly – Uses basic ingredients that are pantry staples.
Customizable – Fits various diets with easy substitutions.
One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup makes everyone happy!
Rich and Creamy – The ultimate comfort food in every bite.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works wonderfully for a leaner, lighter stroganoff.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or even cashew cream. If you don’t want a coconut flavor, unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of flour can work too.

Is it okay to skip the mushrooms?

Absolutely. Though mushrooms add a nice earthiness, you can simply omit them or replace them with zucchini for a similar texture.

Where can I find more hearty dinner recipes?

You can explore more comforting dinner recipes to enjoy hearty meals at home.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

Ben Carraoli