Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ground Beef Stroganoff is the kind of meal you crave after a long day: richly savory, velvety, and impossibly satisfying. This one-pan wonder brings together tender ground beef, hearty egg noodles, and the creamiest sauce that wraps every bite in comfort. If you haven’t yet tried a homemade stroganoff, prepare for a weeknight dinner that’s destined to become a regular at your table. Whether you’re serving hungry kids or treating yourself to a nostalgic favorite, this dish delivers flavor, warmth, and a moment of delicious calm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor in this Ground Beef Stroganoff. Each ingredient brings its own essential touch, whether it’s beefy richness, silky smooth texture, or that subtly tangy finishing note.

• Egg noodles: Classic, tender, and perfect for soaking up all that luscious sauce. Cook just until al dente!
• Ground beef: Savory and quick-cooking, the heart of stroganoff. Opt for 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Butter: Melts into the skillet to create the base of your rich, creamy roux.
• Flour: Whisked into the butter to thicken the sauce and give it that signature silkiness.
• Beef broth: Adds depth, moisture, and that unmistakable beefy comfort.
• Milk: Streams into the sauce, making everything creamy and smooth without being overly heavy.
• Garlic powder: Effortless garlicky flavor that melds right into the sauce—no chopping required.
• Onion powder: Lends gentle sweetness and a savory background note.
• Black pepper: Provides a hint of spice to keep things interesting.
• Salt: Essential for popping all the beef and dairy flavors.
• Sour cream: Swirled in at the end, it adds that signature tang and makes the sauce velvety and irresistible.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Toss in your egg noodles and cook them according to package directions—usually about 7 to 8 minutes for that perfect bite. Drain them well and set them aside, ready to welcome the rich sauce cradled in every curl.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon as it sizzles. Keep turning and stirring for 6 to 8 minutes until every bit has browned and there’s no pink left. Drain off any extra fat—this keeps your stroganoff from becoming greasy—and transfer the beef to a plate for now.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In that same skillet (no need to wash, let those browned bits flavor your sauce!), melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, then whisk continuously. After about 2 minutes, you’ll have a smooth, light-colored roux that smells just a little nutty—this is your secret weapon for a lush, thickened stroganoff sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking as you go to avoid any lumps. As you stir for a few minutes, you’ll notice the sauce start to come together, thickening beautifully and soaking up those savory pan juices.

Step 5: Stir in the Milk

Gently add the milk, pouring it in a little at a time. Continue whisking over medium heat and watch as your sauce transforms, becoming glossy, smooth, and thick enough to cling dreamily to your noodles. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes—but patience pays off.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together so each layer of flavor melds seamlessly into the creamy base. Taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed—you want the sauce to sing but not overpower the beef.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked noodles and browned beef right back into the skillet. Fold gently until every noodle is coated and the beef is nestled back into the sauce. Let it heat through until everything is perfectly piping hot and incredibly inviting.

Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream

Right before serving, stir in the sour cream. Don’t rush this part—let it melt in slowly, turning the sauce silky and giving your Ground Beef Stroganoff that signature touch of tang. Everything should look creamy, cohesive, and gloriously rich.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Garnishes

Nothing lifts a bowl of Ground Beef Stroganoff like a final sprinkle of fresh parsley—it adds color and a pop of freshness that balances the richness. For extra indulgence, try a dusting of grated parmesan or a grating of black pepper for some heat.

Side Dishes

This comforting dish feels right at home next to bright, crisp steamed green beans or a cooling cucumber salad. Garlic bread, crusty rolls, or a simple mixed greens salad turn this meal into a full-on feast, effortlessly pleasing the whole family.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Ground Beef Stroganoff in individual ramekins or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes instead of noodles. Or, if you want to wow guests, spoon the stroganoff over buttery toast or even baked potatoes for a cozy, modern update.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, you’re in for a treat. Let your Ground Beef Stroganoff cool completely, then scoop it into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, the flavors deepening overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, transfer cooled stroganoff to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Lay it flat so it freezes evenly, and stash it for up to 2 months. When you crave cozy comfort food, your future self will thank you!

Reheating

Reheat leftover stroganoff gently in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess. Microwave in 1-minute bursts if you’re in a hurry, stirring in between so everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use different noodles for Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, wide pasta like pappardelle or even rotini work well. Just choose a shape that hugs the creamy sauce.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can easily lighten things up by using lean ground beef or substituting some of the milk with low-fat milk, and using reduced-fat sour cream. You’ll get all the flavor with a bit less richness.

Can I add mushrooms or vegetables?

Definitely! Sauté sliced mushrooms, onions, or even bell peppers in the skillet after browning the beef for extra texture and nutrition. It’s a great way to personalize Ground Beef Stroganoff.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you’re in a pinch, chicken broth or even vegetable broth will work. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still have a creamy, comforting sauce to enjoy.

Does Ground Beef Stroganoff taste good the next day?

In fact, many people think it’s even better! The flavors meld and intensify overnight in the fridge, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of serving a bubbling skillet of homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff to the people you care about. It’s unfussy, reliably delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your dinner table. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a comfort-food classic you’ll want to make again and again!

Print