If you’ve been craving a dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket of creamy, savory goodness, Ground Beef Stroganoff is here to answer the call. This family-friendly classic takes humble ingredients—tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and velvety sour cream—and transforms them into a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of egg noodle. Whether you’re rushing home on a weeknight or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe is your ticket to comfort. The tender bites of seasoned beef mingle with sautéed onions and garlic, creating a robust flavor base, while a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a hint of paprika bring depth and a gentle warmth. As you stir in the sour cream, the sauce becomes irresistibly smooth and tangy, ready to elevate each forkful into a moment of pure satisfaction.
Beyond its dreamy texture and rich taste, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is wonderfully approachable—even if you’re new to cooking. In just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. The simple steps guide you from browning the beef to finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, ensuring every bite is brimming with color and life. Perfect for beginners and busy families alike, it’s a recipe that invites laughter and conversation around the table. So grab your skillet and your favorite wooden spoon—there’s a steaming plate of creamy, savory bliss waiting to be devoured.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND BEEF STROGANOFF
Before you begin, let’s take a closer look at the star players that make this Ground Beef Stroganoff shine. Each ingredient brings its own character, from deep umami tones to bright, fresh notes. Understanding the role of each component will help you appreciate the harmony they create together.
- Ground Beef
Provides a hearty, meaty foundation and rich flavor. Its natural juices mingle with the sauce, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying. Opt for a lean grind to keep the dish balanced.
- Olive Oil
Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables. Its mild fruitiness helps carry flavors and prevents sticking without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion
Adds sweetness and depth when finely chopped and sautéed until translucent. Onions form the aromatic base that complements the savory beef.
- Garlic
Brings a punchy, aromatic flair. Minced garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and complexity, enhancing the overall savoriness.
- Mushrooms
Lend an earthy, meaty texture. Sliced and browned, they absorb the flavors of the beef and spices, adding layers of umami.
- All-Purpose Flour
Acts as a thickening agent. When sprinkled over the mushroom mixture and cooked briefly, it helps create a luxuriously creamy sauce without lumps.
- Beef Broth
Forms the liquid base of the sauce, contributing rich, savory notes that build on the beef’s flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce
Provides a tangy, umami boost. Its complex blend of vinegar, molasses, and spices deepens the overall taste profile.
- Paprika
Offers a mild warmth and vibrant color. It balances the creaminess and ties together the other spices.
- Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning each layer, ensuring the flavors pop without becoming flat or one-dimensional.
- Sour Cream
Creates the signature creamy texture and adds a gentle tang. Stirred in at the end, it enriches the sauce without curdling.
- Fresh Parsley
Delivers a bright, herbal finish. Chopped and sprinkled on top, it adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Egg Noodles
Serve as the perfect vehicle for the sauce. Their soft, twisted shape captures every bit of the Stroganoff’s glory.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF STROGANOFF
Let’s walk through each step of transforming these ingredients into a soul-warming dinner that’s sure to impress. From browning the beef to stirring in the final dollop of sour cream, you’ll master techniques that bring out the very best flavors.
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to shimmer gently before adding any ingredients.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. As the beef releases fat, tilt the pan and drain any excess to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
3. Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet, and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, scraping up any browned bits for maximum flavor.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and tender, stirring occasionally so they release their moisture and develop a rich, caramelized taste.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. This step ensures the sauce will thicken evenly.
6. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. The mixture should start to thicken around the edges.
7. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to develop body and depth.
8. Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Continue to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, but be careful not to let it boil to prevent curdling.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
10. Serve immediately over cooked egg noodles, garnishing with additional parsley if desired, and dig in while it’s piping hot.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND BEEF STROGANOFF
When it comes to presenting this decadent Stroganoff, you want both style and substance to shine through. Whether you’re scooping it onto a simple dinner plate or spooning it into a deep bowl, these serving ideas will elevate every bite and create a memorable dining experience.
- Classic Platter: Pile a generous portion of Stroganoff atop a bed of fluffy egg noodles on a wide, shallow bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a twist of black pepper to highlight the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Rustic Bowl: Serve in a deep, heirloom-style ceramic bowl to capture extra sauce beneath each bite. Top with a dusting of paprika for a vibrant color contrast and an extra hint of warmth.
- Family-Style Feast: Transfer the Stroganoff into a large, family-style serving dish and let everyone help themselves. Place bowls of extra parsley and a small jug of Worcestershire sauce on the side for personal customization.
- Comfort Combo: Pair each plate with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll. The bread is perfect for mopping up any lingering sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
HOW TO STORE GROUND BEEF STROGANOFF
Storing your Stroganoff the right way ensures that none of its creamy, comforting goodness is ever wasted. Whether you’re saving leftovers for the next day or prepping meals in advance, these tips will help you maintain optimal texture and flavor.
- Refrigerator Storage: Allow the Stroganoff to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezer Meal Prep: For longer storage, portion the cooled Stroganoff into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Separate Components: Keep the noodles or any side dishes separate from the Stroganoff sauce when storing. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft or gummy. Combine only when reheating or serving.
- Vacuum Sealing: If you have a vacuum sealer, use it to extend freshness. Vacuum-sealed Stroganoff can last up to 6 months in the freezer while preserving maximum flavor and preventing freezer burn.
CONCLUSION
From the first sizzle of ground beef hitting the skillet to the final swirl of sour cream, Ground Beef Stroganoff delivers a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. We’ve covered everything you need: a vivid introduction to its comforting appeal, an in-depth look at the key ingredients that make each element shine, and a step-by-step guide to creating that silky, savory sauce you know and love. Serving suggestions help you present the dish with flair, while storage tips ensure you can savor the leftovers without losing an ounce of flavor. This article is designed to be your go-to resource—feel free to print it out and tuck it into your recipe binder for quick reference whenever you’re in the mood for a heartwarming meal.
Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find that mastering this Stroganoff is both rewarding and approachable. Don’t forget to check out the FAQ section below for answers to common questions about substitutions, reheating, and troubleshooting. If you give this recipe a try, share your experience—ask questions, leave feedback, or tell us about any creative twists you added. We’d love to hear your stories, help with any hiccups, and celebrate each delicious outcome alongside you. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Description
Experience the creamy, savory bliss of Ground Beef Stroganoff, where tender beef meets sautéed mushrooms and a rich sauce, served over perfectly cooked egg noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
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Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet, and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
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Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and tender.
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Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine.
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Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid any lumps.
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Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, but do not let it boil.
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Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
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Serve immediately over cooked egg noodles, garnishing with additional parsley if desired.
Note
- For a richer flavor, replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms for added depth.
- This dish is perfect for leftovers and tastes even better the next day.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a lighter option.
- Consider adding a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat in your Stroganoff.
