Easy 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Weeknight Meal
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and incredibly delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish comes together in just 30 minutes, featuring savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a comforting classic that consistently earns rave reviews from the whole family, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.
Why This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Works
This ground beef stroganoff, often affectionately called hamburger stroganoff, delivers all the rich, comforting flavors you expect from classic beef stroganoff, but with a significant advantage: it uses ground beef instead of steak. This simple substitution makes the dish incredibly budget-friendly and remarkably faster to prepare, transforming it into the perfect solution for a hearty, filling, and quick weeknight dinner. The magic lies in the blend of tender ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, and savory mushrooms, all simmered in a creamy, tangy sauce featuring Worcestershire and Dijon mustard. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfies without the fuss.
The beauty of this ground beef stroganoff recipe isn’t just its speed and affordability; it’s also about its straightforward cooking process. Unlike traditional stroganoff that might require searing and slow-cooking cuts of steak, this version involves simple browning of ground beef. The most “challenging” part of the preparation is merely chopping your vegetables, which is a small price to pay for such a flavorful and satisfying meal. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring this restaurant-quality dish to your own dinner table, making it a reliable favorite for busy households.
Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Crafting the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff starts with quality ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll need to create this comforting classic. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, remember to check out the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Information and Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients that make this ground beef stroganoff truly special, along with some flexible substitution suggestions to fit your pantry and preferences.
- BEEF: For a lighter version of this hearty dish, I highly recommend opting for extra lean ground beef. This helps reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for an alternative to beef, ground turkey is an excellent substitute, offering a similar texture and taking on the rich flavors of the stroganoff sauce beautifully. Ground chicken can also work, but ensure you don’t overcook it to keep it tender.
- ONIONS & GARLIC: Freshly chopped yellow onion and minced garlic are foundational aromatics that build the flavor base for our stroganoff. Don’t rush the sautéing process here; allowing them to soften and become fragrant is key to a deeply flavored sauce.
- MUSHROOMS: White button mushrooms are classic for stroganoff, but feel free to experiment with cremini (baby bella) mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and integrate well into the sauce. If fresh mushrooms aren’t available, canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch, just drain them thoroughly.
- SAUCE BASE (Beef Broth & Flour): Low-sodium beef broth is essential for controlling the seasoning of your dish. All-purpose flour acts as a thickener, creating a smooth, velvety gravy. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) added at the simmering stage, or use a gluten-free flour blend.
- FLAVOR BOOSTERS (Worcestershire & Dijon): These two ingredients are critical for the authentic stroganoff flavor profile, adding depth, tang, and umami.
- If you’re not a fan of Worcestershire sauce, a low-sodium soy sauce can provide a similar umami kick. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Dijon mustard contributes a subtle tang and warmth. If you prefer, spicy brown mustard or even regular yellow mustard can be used, or it can be omitted to suit your taste. While optional, both Worcestershire and Dijon are highly recommended for the best flavor and complexity.
- CREAMY ELEMENTS (Cream Cheese & Sour Cream): The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates the luscious, rich consistency characteristic of stroganoff.
- Using full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best texture and to prevent curdling, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option. If using Greek yogurt, ensure it’s at room temperature and add it gradually at the very end of cooking to prevent separation.
- Cubed cream cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, adding richness. Make sure it’s softened slightly before adding for easier blending.
- EGG NOODLES: Wide egg noodles are the traditional choice for stroganoff, providing a soft, tender complement to the creamy sauce. Cook them al dente according to package directions.
- GARNISH (Parsley): Freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of color and a fresh herbaceous note. It’s optional but highly recommended for presentation and a burst of freshness.
How to Make Quick & Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious ground beef stroganoff recipe. For the full printable version with exact measurements and a complete list of ingredients, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet with deep sides (a 3.6-quart skillet works perfectly), melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
- Cook Mushrooms & Garlic: Next, add the sliced white mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture. Once cooked, transfer the mushroom and onion mixture to a separate bowl and set aside for later. This ensures they don’t get overcooked while the beef is browning.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Stir in 1 cup of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer briefly to combine the flavors, then set this mixture aside with the mushrooms.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of beef broth with 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. Return the beef mixture (and its liquid) to the pan, then stir in the flour-broth mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken to your desired consistency. This roux-like base creates a wonderfully rich and smooth gravy.
- Add Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the reserved mushrooms back into the pan, along with the cubed cream cheese and full-fat sour cream. Stir gently but continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sour cream is smoothly incorporated, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Be careful not to boil the sauce once the sour cream is added to prevent curdling.
- Combine with Noodles: Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, add the cooked wide egg noodles directly to the pan with the stroganoff mixture.
- Serve & Garnish: Gently mix the noodles until they are fully coated in the creamy ground beef stroganoff sauce. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Store any leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently over medium heat in a skillet on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
While you technically can freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff, the dairy components (sour cream, cream cheese) tend to separate and become grainy when thawed and reheated, affecting the sauce’s creamy texture. The noodles can also become mushy. If you must freeze, it’s best to freeze the ground beef and mushroom mixture *before* adding the dairy, then add the cream cheese and sour cream (and cook fresh noodles) upon reheating.
To ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without curdling, always add the sour cream and cream cheese at the very end of the cooking process, after reducing the heat to low. Ensure your sour cream is at room temperature before adding it to avoid a sudden temperature shock. Stir gently until just combined and heated through, but do not bring the sauce to a boil once the dairy is added.
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch (1 teaspoon) with an equal part of cold water to create a slurry, then gradually whisk it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, simply stir in a splash more beef broth or water until it thins out to your liking.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Stroganoff
While tender egg noodles are the quintessential pairing for Ground Beef Stroganoff, their separate preparation means they are entirely optional, giving you delightful flexibility. Many people prefer to serve their stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the rich sauce beautifully, or a bed of fluffy white rice for a lighter alternative. Whichever base you choose, rest assured, it will be absolutely delicious!
To round out your meal, consider these excellent side dish options:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce.
- Green Vegetables: Balance the richness of the stroganoff with a vibrant green vegetable. Steamed or roasted broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette all make fantastic choices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory stroganoff.
If you’re as enamored with stroganoff as we are, you’ll be thrilled to explore our other fantastic variations: try our hearty beef stroganoff casserole (also made with ground beef for extra convenience!), the super-fast Instant Pot beef stroganoff for busy evenings, or the wonderfully hands-off Crockpot beef stroganoff for a slow-cooked delight.
More Irresistible Ground Beef Recipes to Try
Ground beef is a versatile and economical ingredient that forms the foundation of countless family-favorite meals. If you love the ease and flavor of this Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll definitely want to add these other fantastic ground beef recipes to your meal rotation:
- Classic Sloppy Joes: A childhood favorite, perfect for a quick and messy dinner.
- Hearty Taco Soup: All the flavors of your favorite tacos in a comforting bowl of soup.
- Homestyle Salisbury Steaks: Tender beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy.
- Crispy Air Fryer Empanadas: Flavorful ground beef filling encased in a golden, crispy crust.
- Southwest Ground Beef Casserole: A cheesy, spicy, and satisfying casserole packed with flavor.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta: All the deliciousness of a bacon cheeseburger, transformed into a comforting pasta dish.
I absolutely adore cooking and baking, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing my culinary experiences with all of you! Remembering to visit daily for new recipes can be tough, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new recipe is published. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 16 ounces white mushrooms sliced thin
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth divided
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 3 Tablespoons all purpose flour
- 4 ounces cream cheese cubed small
- ⅔ cup full fat sour cream
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles cooked to al dente
- freshly chopped parsley optional as garnish
Things You’ll Need
-
Large skillet
Before You Begin
- Optionally serve over mashed potatoes or rice instead of egg noodles.
- Store in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat in a skillet or in the microwave.
- Worcestershire and Dijon mustard are optional and can be omitted if desired.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if needed.
Instructions
-
In a large skillet with deep sides (mine was 3.6 quarts) melt butter on medium heat.
-
Add onion and cook for 3-5 minutes.
-
Add in mushrooms and garlic and cook for additional 5 minutes until mushrooms are soft, stirring regularly, then set aside in a bowl.
-
Cook ground beef until it is no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes), then mix in 1 cup beef broth, Worcestershire sauce and Dijon, and briefly set aside.
-
Mix additional cup of beef broth with 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, then add into the pan, and bring to a simmer.
-
Reduce the heat to low add the mushrooms back in, along with cream cheese and sour cream.
-
Once they are melted and creamy, add cooked egg noodles to the pan.
-
Mix noodles until fully incorporated and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.