There’s nothing quite like a comforting, home-cooked meal to brighten up a weeknight. One of my all-time favorites, and a dish that always brings back fond memories, is Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Ready in just 30-40 minutes, this easy Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is incredibly satisfying and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let me show you how to make it!
Table of Contents

Simple Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A Comforting Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a heavy, deep pan over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add ground beef and stir to break down beef into tiny pieces. Add onions and minced garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent and golden brown.
- Add sliced mushrooms and saute for another 5 minutes or until the mushrooms soften. If they release a lot of juice, let it evaporate.
- Add flour and stir until fully incorporated. Be sure to mix in any lumps that form.
- Add 1 cup beef broth, 1 cup whipping cream, 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper and bring it to a simmer. Turn the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and add in sour cream. Stir to combine everything together and season to taste if needed. Serve over noodles, rice or potatoes.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!What is Stroganoff? (A Brief History)
Stroganoff has a fascinating history! It originated in Russia, and it was named after the Stroganov family. Over the years, this classic dish has evolved, with countless variations popping up around the world.
My version uses ground beef, which makes it super accessible and quick to prepare without sacrificing any of that rich, comforting flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

- Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It comes together in under 40 minutes!
- Flavorful: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and creamy sauce is simply irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
- Versatile: Serve it over noodles, rice, or potatoes, and customize it with your favorite veggies.
Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion (diced)
- 1 lb mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced )
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
Let’s talk ingredients! For the ground beef, I like to use lean ground beef, but grass-fed is also a great option for a richer flavor. When buying ground beef, look for a bright red color and a fresh smell.
The USDA regulates ground beef labeling, with the maximum fat content being 30% [8]. You can use homemade or store-bought beef broth, depending on what you have on hand. For the mushrooms, I love using cremini mushrooms, but feel free to experiment with other varieties. Shiitake mushrooms offer an earthier flavor, while oyster mushrooms provide a delicate, slightly sweet taste.
If you are looking for a delicious dish for a party, consider the Best Cheese Ball Recipe for Any Party.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe, thankfully.
A large skillet or deep pan, a cutting board, and a good knife are the essentials!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Preheat a heavy, deep pan over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add ground beef and stir to break down beef into tiny pieces. Add onions and minced garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent and golden brown.
- Add sliced mushrooms and saute for another 5 minutes or until the mushrooms soften. If they release a lot of juice, let it evaporate.
- Add flour and stir until fully incorporated. Be sure to mix in any lumps that form.
- Add 1 cup beef broth, 1 cup whipping cream, 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper and bring it to a simmer. Turn the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and add in sour cream. Stir to combine everything together and season to taste if needed. Serve over noodles, rice or potatoes.
Step-by-step pictures would be super helpful here, right? I’ll work on adding those next time I make this dish.
Serving Suggestions for Your Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
While Stroganoff is traditionally served over egg noodles, don’t be afraid to get creative! I also love it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative. As for side dishes, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus would perfectly complement the richness of the Stroganoff.
Looking for a Thanksgiving side dish? Consider the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe for a Flavorful Feast. Mashed sweet potatoes would be delicious too!
Dietary Modifications for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s how to adapt this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe to fit various dietary needs:
| Modification | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Gluten-free flour | Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. |
| Dairy-Free | Coconut cream/cashew cream | Ensure it’s unsweetened. |
| Keto/Low-Carb | Cauliflower rice/zucchini noodles | Serve over low-carb alternatives to pasta or rice. |
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To prevent the sour cream from curdling, temper it by adding a spoonful of the hot sauce to the sour cream before stirring it into the pan. Also, be sure to remove the pan from the heat before adding the sour cream.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of beef broth or cream.
Check out this Amazing Christmas Cranberry Bars Recipe This Year for another delicious recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions I get about making Ground Beef Stroganoff:
How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
To prevent curdling, temper the sour cream by mixing a spoonful of the hot sauce into it before adding it to the pan. Also, remove the pan from the heat before stirring in the sour cream.
What are some tips for thickening or thinning the sauce?
For a thicker sauce, simmer the Stroganoff for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of beef broth or cream.
Can I use different types of mushrooms? What are the flavor profiles?
Absolutely! Cremini mushrooms have a mild, earthy flavor. Shiitake mushrooms offer a more intense, woodsy taste, while oyster mushrooms are delicate and slightly sweet.
What kind of equipment is needed?
All you need is a large skillet or deep pan, a cutting board, and a good knife.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients, making it a go-to dish for busy home cooks. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the joy of this classic recipe in your own kitchen!
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite variations of Stroganoff? Do you have any secret ingredients or tips to share? Leave a comment below and let’s cook together!
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