Have you ever craved a dish that envelops your senses in warmth and comfort? Beef stroganoff with ground beef is the answer to those moments when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender ground beef, rich gravy, and creamy sauce creates an indulgent experience that satisfies both hunger and nostalgia.
As I recall my childhood dining experiences, many evenings revolved around this classic dish. The aroma wafting through the house would draw everyone to the table, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and good conversation. This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about shared moments and joy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, this savory delight promises to deliver on flavor while being simple enough for even novice cooks.
Why You’ll Love This beef stroganoff with ground beef
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without fuss. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, mushrooms, and ground beef simmered in a creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Beef stroganoff can be served over various bases such as egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish according to your preferences.
Ingredients for beef stroganoff with ground beef
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while still achieving great flavor. Aim for 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio for optimal juiciness.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; finely chop it to blend well into the dish.
- Mushrooms: Fresh sliced mushrooms bring an earthy richness; button or cremini mushrooms work beautifully here.
- Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic elevate the flavor profile; always use fresh garlic for maximum taste.
- Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth provides moisture and enhances the meatiness of the dish without overwhelming saltiness.
For the Sauce:
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; choose full-fat sour cream for a richer texture.
- Flour: For thickening the sauce; all-purpose flour works perfectly here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make beef stroganoff with ground beef
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions, slice the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and measure out your broth and sour cream.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until browned (about five minutes), breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet with cooked ground beef. Sauté until softened (about four minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create Gravy Base
Sprinkle flour over the mixture in the skillet and stir well to coat everything evenly. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Allow it to simmer until slightly thickened (about three minutes).
Step 5: Mix in Sour Cream
Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream until well combined. Allow it to warm through but do not boil; this will take about two minutes.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Transfer your creamy beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an elegant touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavors significantly compared to frozen options; always opt for fresh whenever possible.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference after adding sour cream but before serving.
- Add Wine for Depth: A splash of white wine during cooking deepens flavors; let it reduce slightly before adding broth.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using low-quality ground beef: One of the biggest mistakes you can make when preparing beef stroganoff with ground beef is opting for low-quality meat. Using a higher-fat content ground beef ensures that your dish remains juicy and flavorful. Leaner meats may result in a dry, less satisfying meal. Always choose ground beef that has at least 80% lean to maintain the rich taste and texture characteristic of traditional stroganoff.
- Skipping the browning step: Another common mistake is not properly browning the ground beef before adding other ingredients. Browning adds depth and richness to the overall flavor. Cook the beef over medium-high heat until it develops a nice brown crust, which enhances both taste and appearance. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Overcooking the sauce: Many cooks mistakenly leave their sauce on high heat for too long, resulting in a thick and unappealing consistency. When making the sauce for your beef stroganoff with ground beef, keep an eye on it and simmer gently after adding sour cream. Overcooking can lead to curdled cream and a loss of flavor, so always remove it from heat once combined.
- Forgetting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust your seasonings is another pitfall when making beef stroganoff with ground beef. Different brands of broth or canned soups can vary greatly in saltiness. Make sure to taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance flavors without overpowering them. A little sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also elevate your dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
This beef stroganoff with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Egg Noodles: The classic choice, egg noodles allow the creamy sauce to cling beautifully. Cook them al dente for the best texture.
- Rice: Serve your beef stroganoff over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for this dish. They enhance the richness of the sauce and provide a comforting element.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for beef stroganoff with ground beef?
To prepare beef stroganoff with ground beef, you will need several key ingredients. Start with one pound of ground beef as your protein. You’ll also require onions and garlic for flavor, along with mushrooms that add depth to the dish. The creamy sauce comes from sour cream and beef broth, while Worcestershire sauce gives it that savory kick. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This combination creates a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.
Can I make beef stroganoff with ground beef in advance?
Yes, you can prepare beef stroganoff with ground beef in advance. This dish actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply cook the recipe as instructed and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to loosen up the sauce.
How can I make my beef stroganoff with ground beef healthier?
To create a healthier version of beef stroganoff with ground beef, consider using lean ground beef or even turkey as a substitute. You can also incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Opt for low-fat sour cream and whole grain noodles or brown rice for added fiber. These modifications will keep your dish hearty while reducing calories.
What can I serve alongside my beef stroganoff with ground beef?
Beef stroganoff with ground beef pairs well with various side dishes. In addition to egg noodles, consider offering steamed green beans or a fresh side salad to balance out the richness of the meal. Roasted vegetables also complement this dish nicely, providing a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
Conclusion for beef stroganoff with ground beef
In conclusion, making delicious beef stroganoff with ground beef is both simple and satisfying. With key ingredients like ground meat, mushrooms, and sour cream, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time. Remember to serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience. Additionally, feel free to experiment by adding extra vegetables or using leaner meat options for a healthier twist. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe promises warmth and flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite!

Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
Beef stroganoff with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that delivers rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, all enveloped in a luxurious sour cream sauce. Served over egg noodles or rice, this hearty dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious family meal without the hassle. The nostalgic aroma of this classic dish will evoke warm memories while filling your kitchen with delightful scents. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this beef stroganoff is guaranteed to impress.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil
Instructions
- 1. Prepare ingredients: Chop the onion, slice the mushrooms, and mince the garlic.
- 2. Brown the ground beef: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
- 3. Sauté vegetables: Add onions and mushrooms; cook until softened (about 4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- 4. Create gravy base: Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well. Gradually add beef broth while stirring continuously until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
- 5. Mix in sour cream: Reduce heat to low; stir in sour cream until combined and warmed through (about 2 minutes). Do not boil.
- 6. Serve: Transfer beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice; garnish with parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg