Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is pure weeknight comfort on a plate—rich, creamy, and brimming with sautéed mushrooms, tender ground beef, and a tangy, dreamy sauce that’s ready in just 35 minutes. It’s a dish that always pulls everyone to the table and brings a little extra warmth to your evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe, and that’s what makes it so wonderfully achievable. Each element contributes its own special touch—from savory beef and meaty mushrooms to a silky, tangy sauce that’s pure comfort.

• Olive oil: Ensures the beef and veggies sauté to a perfect golden brown while adding a subtle layer of flavor.
• Lean ground beef: The star of the show, providing hearty texture and rich, meaty taste in every bite.
• Onion (half, diced): Adds savory sweetness that deepens the overall flavor base.
• Mushrooms (sliced): A whole pound brings earthy, umami flavor and a hearty bite.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Two cloves for just the right aromatic punch without overpowering the dish.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the creamy sauce so every forkful clings perfectly.
• Beef broth: Infuses the sauce with rich, savory backbone that’s key to classic stroganoff.
• Heavy whipping cream: Adds lush creaminess for that signature luxurious texture.
• Sour cream: Delivers tang that balances the savory and rich notes in the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth, a hint of sweetness, and that little something special.
• Salt and black pepper: Just a pinch of each is all you need to let the main flavors shine.

Variations

There’s beauty in making this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe your own! Whether you’re tailoring it to dietary needs or just using what’s in the fridge, there’s plenty of delicious wiggle room in this classic favorite.

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles instead of beef for a fresh spin on the classic.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without missing out on texture.
• Lighten it Up: Use half & half, or even Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and sour cream for a lighter, tangier sauce.
• Extra Veggie Power: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or even roasted red peppers at the end for color and extra nutrients.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a heavy, deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks, stirring until those little beefy bits get a nicely browned edge. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté everything together until the onions turn translucent and golden—this layering of flavors is what makes your Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe truly crave-worthy.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Cook Down

Add the sliced mushrooms straight into the pan. Let them mingle with the beef for about five minutes—don’t rush! If the mushrooms release extra liquid, keep cooking until most of it evaporates. This concentrates their earthy flavor and ensures a deeply robust sauce later on.

Step 3: Stir in Flour for Thickening

Now, sprinkle in the flour (think of this as your secret weapon for silky sauce). Stir diligently, making sure there aren’t any lumps. The mixture should start to look a little paste-like—this is exactly what you want, as it will help your finished sauce cling beautifully to noodles or rice.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it bubble softly for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to harmonize and the sauce to thicken to that dreamy, luscious consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream and Serve

Take the pan off the heat before adding the sour cream—this keeps it smooth and prevents curdling. Stir until the sauce is velvety and unified, then season to taste. Your Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is now ready to be ladled over fluffy noodles, rice, or potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Garnishes

This dish shines with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley—just a little bit brightens up the entire bowl! For added richness, try a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper, or a spoonful of extra sour cream swirled on top for extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

Classic buttered egg noodles are a no-fail match, but fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes are also excellent for soaking up that luscious sauce. I love serving a crisp, tangy salad or simple roasted green beans alongside to keep things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling your creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe into shallow bowls with noodles twirled in the center for a restaurant-style touch, or serve scoops of it over baked potatoes for a cozy twist. For gatherings, present it family-style with a sprinkle of chives and a stack of warm bread for sopping up every last drop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let your stroganoff cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors somehow get even better as they mingle!

Freezing

This recipe can absolutely be frozen, although the sauce might separate just a little upon thawing. For best results, freeze the stroganoff (without noodles) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir once reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, place the stroganoff in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid boiling—gentle heating keeps the sauce silky and prevents curdling.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something so inviting about this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe—it’s cozy, satisfying, and just a little bit nostalgic. I can’t wait for you to try it, let your family dig in, and maybe even put your own spin on this classic favorite. Let your kitchen fill with the aroma and warmth—it’s pure home-cooked happiness!

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