Ground beef stroganoff is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This ground beef stroganoff recipe simplifies traditional preparation while preserving the rich, savory flavors that make it so popular. Originating in Russia, stroganoff has become a global favorite due to its versatility and ease of cooking. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, this ground beef stroganoff recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is the perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ground beef stroganoff is made with simple ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen. Below is a full list with easy swaps and tips for different diets.
Main Ingredients
- Ground Beef – 1 pound (85% lean is ideal for a balance of flavor and reduced grease).
- Substitution: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Mushrooms – 2 cups, sliced (button mushrooms or cremini work best).
- Substitution: Use portobello mushrooms for a meatier texture or canned mushrooms in a pinch.
- Onion – 1 medium, finely diced.
- Tip: Yellow onions provide a mild sweetness, but white or red onions can also work.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
- Tip: Add more garlic for a stronger, aromatic flavor.
- Beef Broth – 2 cups.
- Substitution: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
- Sour Cream – 1 cup.
- Substitution: Greek yogurt or dairy-free sour cream for dietary needs.
- Flour – 2 tablespoons (for thickening).
- Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch.
- Butter – 2 tablespoons.
- Substitution: Olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
- Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon.
- Substitution: Soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon (optional, for added depth and warmth).
For Serving
- Egg Noodles – 12 ounces (cooked according to package instructions).
- Alternatives: Mashed potatoes, rice, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
- Parsley – Fresh, chopped, for garnish.
Optional Add-Ins
- White Wine – ¼ cup for deglazing the pan and adding a touch of acidity.
- Heavy Cream – ¼ cup for an extra creamy texture.
- Cheese – Grated Parmesan or Gruyère as a topping.
These ingredients ensure a flavorful, hearty dish while offering room for personal tweaks.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making ground beef stroganoff is straightforward, and this step-by-step guide ensures you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow these instructions for a delicious, creamy dish every time.
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Egg Noodles
- Add the egg noodles and cook. Drain and set aside.
- Tip: Toss the noodles with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden and tender.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Deglaze the Pan
- Optional but highly recommended: Add ¼ cup of white wine to the pan and stir, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked beef and stir well to coat.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Final Touches
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or heavy cream for desired consistency.
Serving the Dish
- Serve the stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles.
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese on top.
This preparation method ensures a rich and satisfying ground beef stroganoff.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
Perfecting ground beef stroganoff is all about balance and attention to detail. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to restaurant-quality standards.
Key Cooking Tips
- Choose the Right Ground Beef
- Use 85% lean ground beef for the perfect balance between flavor and fat. Too much fat can make the dish greasy, while overly lean meat may dry out.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles
- Cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to soften slightly when combined with the sauce. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
- Avoid Sour Cream Curdling
- To prevent sour cream from curdling, reduce the skillet’s heat to low before adding it. Stir gently and avoid boiling the mixture after adding sour cream.
- Deglaze for Maximum Flavor
- Deglazing the pan with wine or broth after browning the meat and vegetables helps incorporate all the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet into your sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh mushrooms, onions, and garlic will yield a more robust and vibrant flavor than canned or pre-packaged options.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
- Season Generously
- Proper seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika is crucial for a rich and savory sauce. Taste frequently and adjust as needed.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream
- For a silkier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. It adds a luxurious richness without overpowering the dish.
- Add Layers of Umami
- Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or even a dash of miso paste can deepen the savory profile of your stroganoff.
- Balance the Acidity
- If the dish tastes too heavy, add a small squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of white vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish Strategically
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the creamy dish.
- Serve Warm
- Ensure the stroganoff and noodles are served immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
By following these tips, your ground beef stroganoff will consistently turn out rich, creamy, and flavorful.
Creative Variations of Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ground beef stroganoff is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or culinary inspirations. Here are some exciting variations to try.
Vegetarian and Vegan Versions
- Vegetarian Stroganoff
- Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or finely chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a plant-based sauce.
- Vegan Stroganoff
- Swap sour cream with a vegan alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut cream.
- Use vegan butter and plant-based Worcestershire sauce to keep the dish dairy- and meat-free.
- Mushroom-Heavy Variation
- Double the mushrooms and omit the meat for a robust, earthy flavor. Cremini or shiitake mushrooms work especially well.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options
- Zucchini Noodles
- Serve the stroganoff over spiralized zucchini or roasted cauliflower for a low-carb alternative to egg noodles.
- Cream Cheese Addition
- Add cream cheese instead of flour to thicken the sauce, creating a keto-friendly base.
- Swap the Ground Beef
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken to lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
- Gluten-Free Noodles
- Substitute traditional egg noodles with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils.
- Thickening Without Flour
- Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of all-purpose flour to achieve a silky sauce.
International Twists
- Italian-Inspired Stroganoff
- Add diced tomatoes, a dash of oregano, and replace sour cream with mascarpone for an Italian spin. Serve with pasta like fettuccine.
- Spicy Stroganoff
- Incorporate chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. This version pairs well with rice instead of noodles.
- Asian Fusion Stroganoff
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to the sauce, and serve over steamed white rice or rice noodles.
Kid-Friendly Stroganoff
- Cheesy Stroganoff
- Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a creamier, cheesy flavor that kids will love.
- Simplified Recipe
- Reduce the number of ingredients by using premade beef gravy or cream of mushroom soup for the sauce.
With these variations, you can customize ground beef stroganoff to fit any diet, taste preference, or culinary adventure.
Looking for variety? Consider adding the Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe or even the Shrimp Salad Recipe for a more sophisticated touch.
Serving Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground beef stroganoff is a hearty and versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes to complete the meal. Below are some of the best serving ideas and presentation tips for this comforting recipe.
Classic Pairings
- Egg Noodles
- The traditional choice for serving stroganoff, egg noodles provide a tender and buttery complement to the creamy sauce. Toss them with a little olive oil or butter for added flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes create a rich and satisfying base that soaks up the stroganoff sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Rice
- Fluffy white or brown rice is a neutral option that lets the stroganoff shine as the star of the plate.
Low-Carb Options
- Zucchini Noodles
- Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles are ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Use a spiralizer or buy pre-spiralized zucchini for convenience.
- Cauliflower Rice
- Steamed or roasted cauliflower rice offers a healthy, grain-free base with a mild flavor that pairs well with the stroganoff.
Vegetables and Sides
- Roasted Vegetables
- Oven-roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a pop of color and a slight sweetness that balances the savory stroganoff.
- Green Beans
- Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and butter make an excellent side dish.
- Side Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the stroganoff.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or chives brighten the dish and add a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Grated Cheese
- Parmesan, Gruyère, or cheddar can be sprinkled on top for extra richness.
- Cracked Black Pepper
- A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors and adds a slight kick.
Beverage Pairings
- Wine
- A glass of red wine, like Merlot or Pinot Noir, complements the earthy and creamy flavors of stroganoff.
- Beer
- A light, crisp lager or a malty brown ale pairs well with the savory beef and mushrooms.
- Non-Alcoholic
- Sparkling water with lemon or iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Presentation Tips
- Use a Large Platter
- Serve the stroganoff over a bed of noodles or rice on a large serving dish, garnished with parsley for a family-style presentation.
- Individual Bowls
- For a cozy meal, serve portions in individual bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
- Layering
- Place noodles or mashed potatoes at the base, followed by the stroganoff, and top with garnishes like herbs or cheese for an eye-catching plate.
These serving suggestions and presentation ideas elevate ground beef stroganoff into a complete, satisfying meal.
Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and creative side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty Smoked Meatloaf or a light salad, this dish serves as the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the main ingredients in stroganoff?
The main ingredients in stroganoff typically include:
- Beef (ground beef or strips of steak in classic versions).
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Onions to add sweetness and depth.
- Garlic for aromatic richness.
- Beef broth to create the sauce base.
- Sour cream for creaminess and tanginess.
- Flour or cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
- Butter to sauté the vegetables.
- Worcestershire sauce for a savory umami boost.
These ingredients come together to form the dish’s signature creamy and savory flavor profile.
How to add more flavor to beef stroganoff?
Here are several ways to enhance the flavor of beef stroganoff:
- Use fresh herbs: Add parsley, thyme, or dill to brighten the dish.
- Incorporate spices: Paprika, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth.
- Deglaze the pan: After cooking the beef, deglaze the pan with white wine or broth to incorporate the browned bits into the sauce.
- Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce: These provide a savory umami boost.
- Include a splash of acid: A touch of lemon juice or vinegar balances the richness.
- Use flavorful stock: Opt for high-quality beef broth for a richer base.
- Finish with heavy cream: Adding a bit of heavy cream can create a velvety texture.
Can I use cream cheese instead of sour cream in beef stroganoff?
Yes, cream cheese can be used instead of sour cream in beef stroganoff. It adds a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor, though it’s richer and denser than sour cream. To use cream cheese:
- Softened cream cheese works best to blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Add it in small amounts, stirring thoroughly to ensure it melts and integrates well.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of broth or milk.
What is a substitute for white wine in beef stroganoff?
If you don’t have white wine, here are some substitutes:
- Beef broth or stock: Adds richness without altering the dish’s overall flavor.
- Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar: Use sparingly to replicate the wine’s acidity.
- Lemon juice: A small amount provides a similar bright, acidic note.
- White grape juice: A non-alcoholic option that adds mild sweetness and acidity.
- Dry sherry or vermouth: If available, these can substitute for white wine with a slightly richer taste.
Adjust the amount of liquid to ensure the sauce maintains the correct consistency.
Conclusion
Ground beef stroganoff is a classic dish that mixes rich, tasty flavors with a creamy texture, making it a favorite comfort food around the world. This ground beef stroganoff recipe is easy to make and lets you customize it in many ways. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or a healthier option, it’s sure to delight everyone.
With this simple guide, you’ll learn how to make a foolproof ground beef stroganoff recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to try different ingredients, spices, or sides to make it your own. Enjoy cooking, and savor every creamy, delicious bite of this well-loved dish!
If you’re ready to start, gather your ingredients and follow this quick and tasty recipe. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Creamy, Savory & Easy to Make
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Large pot for boiling noodles (if serving with pasta)
- Strainer (for draining pasta)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz 225g mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 240ml beef broth
- 1 cup 240ml sour cream (full-fat or light)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional but adds depth
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper or to taste
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional for extra flavor
- ½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh
- 8 oz 225g egg noodles or rice, for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add butter, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually stir in beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the Creamy Ingredients
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not boil, as it may cause the sour cream to separate.
- Combine & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Toss with cooked egg noodles or serve over rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Notes
Mushroom Substitute: If you don’t like mushrooms, swap them for zucchini or bell peppers.
Sour Cream Substitute: Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used for a tangier or richer flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over mashed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.