Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ever have one of those nights when you need dinner fast, but you still want it to taste amazing? That’s me, most days! This quick and easy ground beef stroganoff is my go-to for busy weeknights.

It’s creamy, comforting, and full of rich, savory flavors—all without the hassle. No fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just simple pantry staples. And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Think tender ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and buttery noodles soaking up all that goodness. Every bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s picky-eater approved—my family licks their plates clean!

So, grab a skillet, and let’s make dinner easy tonight. Follow along, and I’ll show you just how simple this stroganoff really is. You’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Effortless: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute dinner.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and sour cream creates a velvety, satisfying sauce.
• One-Pan Meal: Everything (except the noodles) is cooked in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup.
• Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will enjoy, even picky eaters.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 4 servings—perfect for a small family. If you need more, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly—this dish is simple to make, even if you’re new to cooking.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: A wide, deep pan ensures even cooking.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
• Medium Pot: For cooking the egg noodles separately.
• Colander: For draining the noodles.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: To get the right ingredient portions.

Key Ingredients for the Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• Dried Wide Egg Noodles: Classic for stroganoff, these noodles soak up the rich sauce beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
• Sweet Onion: Finely diced for a hint of natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced for deep, savory flavor.
• Lean Ground Beef: Provides hearty texture without too much grease.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• Coarse Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for depth.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a rich umami boost and slight acidity.
• Condensed Beef Consommé: A concentrated broth that intensifies the beefy flavor.
• White Wine Vinegar: Brightens up the sauce and balances the richness.
• Sliced Cremini Mushrooms: Provide an earthy, meaty bite.
• Sour Cream: The key to that signature creamy stroganoff sauce.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A vibrant garnish to finish the dish.

Recipe Variations for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Want to tweak this recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs? Here are some easy variations:

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap ground beef with turkey or chicken.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef consommé.
• Go Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
• Add Extra Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Use a Different Pasta: Swap egg noodles for fettuccine, penne, or even mashed potatoes.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
3. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside.

Tip: Toss the noodles with a little butter to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced sweet onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet.
2. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small crumbles while it cooks.
3. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
4. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if needed.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and stir well to coat.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of coarse salt and ¾ teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, mixing everything together.
3. Stir in the 6-ounce can of tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its depth of flavor.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. Pour in the 10-ounce can of condensed beef consommé and stir to combine.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar to balance the richness.
3. Toss in the sliced cremini mushrooms and stir.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it.

Step 6: Finish with Creamy Goodness

1. Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of sour cream.
2. Mix well until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce.

Tip: Do not boil the sauce after adding sour cream—it can cause curdling. Keep the heat low for a silky texture.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat.
2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve the stroganoff warm in shallow bowls or on plates for an inviting presentation.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With a Side of Vegetables: Pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh side salad.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: Instead of noodles, serve the beef stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes.
• With a Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Rice: A great alternative if you’re out of noodles.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Stroganoff

Storing Leftovers

• Let the stroganoff cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• If you want to freeze it, store the sauce separately from the noodles for the best texture.
• Place the stroganoff sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: A 90/10 or 85/15 ratio works best—just drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
• Sauté the Mushrooms Well: Cooking mushrooms until they release their moisture enhances their deep, earthy flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Flour: This step helps thicken the sauce, creating a rich and velvety consistency.
• Avoid Overcooking the Sour Cream: Stir it in at the end and use low heat to prevent curdling.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	820mg
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs About Ground Beef Stroganoff

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Store the sauce separately from the noodles for the best texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect weeknight dinner—creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s a reliable go-to meal that never disappoints. Serve it up fresh, store leftovers for later, and enjoy a warm, comforting dish any night of the week.