Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, savory flavors of traditional stroganoff with the convenience of ground beef. This weeknight wonder transforms humble ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy sour cream creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in just about 45 minutes.
Unlike traditional stroganoff that requires more expensive cuts of beef, this ground beef version delivers all the flavor at a fraction of the cost and cooking time. It’s the perfect solution for busy families who crave homemade comfort food without hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This
- Budget-friendly alternative to traditional beef stroganoff that doesn’t sacrifice flavor
- One-pan meal that’s ready in under 45 minutes for busy weeknights
- Creamy, comforting sauce that coats each bite perfectly
- Kid-friendly dish that still feels sophisticated enough for adults
- Versatile recipe that works with whatever pasta you have on hand
Ingredients
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside for later use.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually pour the beef broth into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly over medium heat until the sauce thickens again, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, distributing the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Gently stir in the sour cream, ensuring it is fully incorporated into the sauce. The sour cream will add a rich and tangy flavor.
- Serve the dish hot, complemented with your favorite vegetable or garlic toast for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream
- Add 1/2 cup white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor
- Mix in 1/2 cup frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option
- For a richer mushroom flavor, use a mix of button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and serving over gluten-free pasta or rice
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs perfectly with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, serve with steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans on the side.
If you’re looking for a bread option, warm crusty bread or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for sopping up the delicious sauce. For a special touch, serve with a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- The sauce will thicken considerably when chilled; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating
- For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop rather than in the microwave
- This recipe freezes well without the noodles for up to 2 months
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stroganoff sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cook fresh noodles just before serving and reheat the sauce gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute. You can also use crème fraîche for a richer flavor or dairy-free sour cream for a lactose-free option.
Can I use something other than egg noodles?
Absolutely! This stroganoff works well with any pasta shape, rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
My sauce is too thin, how can I thicken it?
If your sauce needs thickening, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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