Ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff: Creamy, Hearty, and Full of Flavor

Ground Beef Stroganoff is my ultimate comfort food. Hi, I’m Chef Amaritta, a 32-year-old home cook from the heart of the USA. I didn’t learn in culinary school my kitchen was my classroom, full of trial, error, and plenty of love.

This quick and creamy recipe combines tender noodles, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce that turns any hectic night into a cozy one. Whether you’re a busy beginner or a seasoned home cook, this dish makes dinner effortless and full of flavor.

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

A Classic Comfort Dish with a Twist

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich sauce made with sour cream, cheese, and beef broth. Traditionally, stroganoff is made with strips of beef and mushrooms, but using ground beef makes it quicker, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why Ground Beef Stroganoff is So Popular

This dish is loved for its simplicity and flexibility. You can cook it entirely on the stovetop or bake it as a casserole. It’s kid-friendly, reheats well, and can even be frozen for later. Plus, the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with various veggies, from peas to green beans.

Origins of Beef Stroganoff

Classic beef stroganoff has Russian roots, dating back to the 19th century, when it was first prepared with sautéed beef in a sour cream-based sauce. Over time, home cooks in the USA adapted it with ground beef and noodles, creating the cozy, family-friendly meal we enjoy today.

Ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff: Creamy, Hearty, and Full of Flavor

---

• Author: meatloversrecipes.net
• Total Time: 50minutes minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff comes together effortlessly on the stovetop or as a cozy baked casserole. Skip the mushrooms and toss in frozen veggies for a quick, fuss-free twist!

---

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef, I use 85% lean
• ▢Salt/Pepper, to taste
• ▢1 onion, finely diced
• ▢2 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢3 Tablespoons butter
• ▢3 Tablespoons flour
• ▢2 ½ cups beef broth
• ▢¾ cup sour cream, close to room temperature
• ▢1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce, can sub low sodium soy sauce
• ▢1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ▢1 cup frozen peas
• ▢2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• ▢8 oz. egg noodles, uncooked
• ▢Parsley, to garnish

 

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Prep Your Ingredients:

• Measure and prep all ingredients before you start cooking.

• Keep the sour cream near the stove to bring it closer to room temperature—it will blend into the sauce more smoothly.

• If possible, shred cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded for better melting.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Beef and Build Flavor:

1. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the beef for about 2 minutes.

2. Add the diced onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned, around 3 more minutes.

3. Drain excess grease, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.

4. Mix in the butter until melted. Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir well to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

3. Make the Sauce:

1. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly and scraping up any browned bits from the pan (this adds deep flavor).

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat.

3. Stir in the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until creamy—if the sour cream looks lumpy at first, it will smooth out as it heats.

4. Add Pasta:

1. Cook your pasta 1 minute less than al dente according to the package instructions.

2. Drain and stir the pasta into the sauce until fully coated.

3. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

5. Bake and Serve:

1. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.

2. Cover and bake for 20 minutes.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Stovetop-Only Option:
Cook pasta fully, mix it into the sauce, top with cheese, and cover the skillet until the cheese melts.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips

You can easily prep this dish in advance. Cook the noodles and mix them into the sauce, then allow the mixture to cool completely. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When baking from cold, simply add about 10 extra minutes to the covered cook time for a total of 30 minutes.

Adding Mushrooms

For the best flavor and texture, sauté mushrooms separately first. Cooking them alone allows the excess moisture to evaporate, deepens their flavor, and gives them a nice golden-brown color. Stir them into the stroganoff along with the cooked noodles so they keep their color and bite.

Extra Tips for Flavor

 

• Swap the Mustard if You Like: Dijon mustard is optional. If you prefer a milder taste, yellow mustard works perfectly—or you can skip it entirely.

• Boost with Worcestershire: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami without being overpowering. You can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce if needed.

• Veggie Upgrades: Toss in frozen veggies like carrots, corn, or green beans for extra color, texture, and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 15minutes minutes
• Cook Time: 40minutes minutes
• Cuisine: American

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make creamy and flavorful ground beef stroganoff, gather these essentials:

• Ground Beef (85% lean): Juicy yet not overly greasy, perfect for a rich sauce.
• Egg Noodles: Traditional and quick-cooking, ideal for soaking up the sauce.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatic staples that create a flavorful base.
• Butter and Flour: Form the roux for a creamy, thickened sauce.
• Beef Broth: Adds savory depth; use low sodium for more control over seasoning.
• Sour Cream: The key to that creamy tangy finish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra comfort.
• Worcestershire Sauce & Dijon Mustard: Boost umami and subtle sharpness.
• Frozen Peas: Add sweetness and color without extra prep.
• Parsley: Fresh garnish to brighten the dish.

Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor

Want to make your stroganoff unique? Try these:

• Sliced Mushrooms: A classic addition for an earthy note.
• Frozen Carrots, Corn, or Green Beans: Boost the veggie factor.
• Paprika or Smoked Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky touch.

Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients

• Grate fresh cheese from a block for smoother melting and richer flavor.
• Let the sour cream warm to room temperature first to prevent it from curdling when added.
• For the richest flavor, opt for fresh garlic instead of the pre-minced jarred version.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Stroganoff

Making ground beef stroganoff at home is easier than you might think. Whether you choose the stovetop or baked casserole version, these steps will give you creamy, hearty results every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Measure all ingredients and keep them within reach.
• Grate cheese from a fresh block to achieve smoother, creamier melting.
• Place sour cream near the stove so it warms to room temperature.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
• Cook and crumble the beef over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the diced onions and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned.
• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Stroganoff Sauce

• Heat the butter in a skillet until melted, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until it turns into a smooth, lump-free roux.
• Cook for roughly 2 minutes, until the flour loses its raw smell.
• Gradually whisk the beef broth in, allowing the mixture to turn into a silky, lump-free sauce.
• Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then mix in the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheese.
• Let the ground beef stroganoff sauce simmer on low while you cook the pasta.

Cook the Egg Noodles

• Boil the egg noodles for 1 minute less than the package’s al dente instructions.
• Drain and immediately add them to the stroganoff sauce, mixing gently to avoid breaking the noodles.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake (Optional)

• If your pan isn’t oven-safe, transfer everything to a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
• Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Chef’s Tip for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you want a stovetop-only version, simply cook the noodles fully, mix with the sauce, sprinkle cheese on top, and cover until melted. This keeps dinner fast and comforting.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff

Cooking ground beef stroganoff is simple, but a few expert tips can take your dish from good to unforgettable. These tricks will help you get the perfect creamy texture and rich flavor every time.

1. Shred Cheese from a Block

Shredded cheese from the bag often has anti-caking additives, which can stop it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese to make your ground beef stroganoff creamier and more flavorful.

2. Warm Your Sour Cream

Cold sour cream can curdle when added to a hot sauce. Keep it at room temperature to blend seamlessly into the stroganoff sauce.

3. Don’t Skip Worcestershire Sauce

This ingredient adds umami and depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, low-sodium soy sauce works as a substitute without changing the taste too much.

4. Add Frozen Vegetables for Convenience

Frozen peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables make a great addition. They add color, nutrition, and texture without extra prep work.

5. Cook Pasta Slightly Underdone Before Baking

If you’re making the casserole version, cook your noodles one minute less than al dente. They’ll finish cooking in the oven and absorb the creamy stroganoff sauce perfectly.

6. Make It Your Own

• Swap mustard types: Dijon for tang or yellow for a mild flavor.
• Add mushrooms if you love them sauté first to prevent sogginess.
• Try cheddar, Colby Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

With these tips, your ground beef stroganoff will taste just like a comforting, homemade classic every time.

Variations of GrouVariations of Ground Beef Stroganoff to Try

One of the best things about ground beef stroganoff is its flexibility. You can switch up ingredients to match your taste, dietary needs, or what’s already in your pantry. Here are a few tasty twists to spark ideas for your next meal.

1. Classic Mushroom Stroganoff

Add sautéed mushrooms to the traditional recipe for an earthy, savory flavor. Brown the mushrooms in a separate pan before mixing them into the ground beef stroganoff to keep their texture intact.

2. Cheesy Baked Stroganoff Casserole

Take your stroganoff to the next level by turning it into a bubbling casserole.

• Prepare the stovetop version as usual.
• Transfer to a casserole dish, top with extra shredded cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
• This variation is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

3. Vegetable-Packed Stroganoff

Boost nutrition by adding frozen carrots, green beans, or corn. These veggies blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce and make your ground beef stroganoff a complete one-pot meal.

4. Low-Carb or Keto Stroganoff

Skip the egg noodles and serve your stroganoff over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or even cauliflower rice. It’s a flavorful way to enjoy the dish without the carbs.

5. Spicy Southwest Stroganoff

Add a kick by stirring in diced green chiles, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce. Top with pepper jack cheese for a fun twist on classic ground beef stroganoff.

6. Make-Ahead Freezer Version

Prepare the sauce and noodles, let the mixture cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container. You can warm it up either on the stovetop or in the oven before serving. This version is ideal for busy weeknights.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips for Ground Beef Stroganoff

One of the best things about ground beef stroganoff is how well it stores and reheats. With the right storage method, you can enjoy leftovers that taste just as good as when freshly made.

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

• Let the stroganoff cool completely to room temperature before placing it in storage.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For the best texture, keep noodles and sauce separate if you plan to store it overnight.

2. Freezing Ground Beef Stroganoff

Freezing is an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeks.

• Prepare the recipe but slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Seal it with the date and store in the freezer for up to three months.

3. Reheating for Best Flavor

• Stovetop: Warm on low heat with a splash of milk or beef broth to revive the creamy texture.
• Oven Method: Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes.
• Microwave in brief bursts, stirring each time to keep the food evenly moist.

4. Pro Tips for Leftovers

• Stir in a bit of sour cream or cheese while reheating for extra creaminess.
• Avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing to maintain flavor and texture.
• Pair reheated ground beef stroganoff with fresh herbs like parsley for a just-made taste.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Ground beef stroganoff is more than just a recipe it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and flavorful beef, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Whether you cook it entirely on the stovetop or bake it into a bubbling casserole, this versatile meal always delivers comfort and satisfaction. Plus, its ability to store, freeze, and reheat makes it a reliable favorite for meal prepping and last-minute dinners.

If you’re ready to bring a little homemade comfort to your kitchen, give this ground beef stroganoff a try. Your family will ask for it again and again!

for more recipes follow me in facebook and pinterest

FAQs About Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here are the most common questions people ask about making and serving ground beef stroganoff, along with helpful answers to make your cooking experience easier.