Ground Beef Stroganoff is a hearty and creamy dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. With tender ground beef, egg noodles, and a rich, velvety sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of flavors—garlic, onion, and a touch of tangy sour cream—elevates this recipe to something special. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving a cozy meal, Ground Beef Stroganoff brings together simple ingredients to create an indulgent, satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the hassle.

2. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The roux-based sauce, made with beef broth, milk, and sour cream, gives this dish its signature creamy texture and rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

3. Versatile Protein Options

You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even diced steak, giving you the freedom to customize this dish to your liking.

4. Comforting and Filling

With the combination of tender beef, noodles, and creamy sauce, this dish is hearty and filling—perfect for satisfying your hunger.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly

Ground Beef Stroganoff can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it an ideal recipe for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Ingredients

Egg noodles
Ground beef
Butter
Flour
Beef broth
Milk
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Salt
Sour cream

Variations

Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. For a heartier option, diced steak works well too.
Mushroom Lovers: Double the mushrooms or add a mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for extra flavor.
Creamy Alternatives: If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt or cream cheese make great substitutes.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles or serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower mash.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the noodles and serve over spiralized zucchini or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
Herb Boost: Fresh thyme or parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a smooth roux.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 5: Add Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly over medium heat until the sauce thickens again, about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, mixing well to distribute the flavors.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked noodles and ground beef back into the skillet and stir until everything is fully combined and heated through.

Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream

Gently stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth, with a hint of tang from the sour cream.

Step 9: Serve

Serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff hot with a side of vegetables or garlic toast for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make Sure the Roux Is Smooth: When making the roux, whisk it continuously to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit more milk or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
Use a Non-Stick Skillet: This will help prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan, making cleanup easier.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add extra spices like paprika or thyme for more depth of flavor.

How to Serve

Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Pair it with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Ground Beef Stroganoff cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled stroganoff in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the stroganoff on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rotini, or even rice can work as a substitute for egg noodles.

2. Can I make this recipe without sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, both ground turkey and chicken make great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.

5. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, Ground Beef Stroganoff freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles or serve the stroganoff over mashed potatoes or rice for a gluten-free alternative.

7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add more beef broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the stroganoff ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe makes a great weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. The rich, creamy sauce and tender beef create a satisfying and flavorful dish that your whole family will love. With plenty of options for customization, Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!