Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Beef Stroganoff is one of those classic comfort foods that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Originating from Russia, this dish has evolved into countless variations worldwide. In this easy version, we use ground beef instead of traditional steak strips to create a quicker and budget-friendly meal without compromising flavor.

1. Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe (Yield: 8 Servings)

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, adjust to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the cooked beef and onions. Stir occasionally and let the mushrooms cook down for 5–6 minutes until tender and golden brown. This step builds a rich, earthy flavor that enhances the sauce later.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper. The aroma of garlic will bring depth and a savory note to the overall dish.

Step 4: Create the Base of the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir well to coat the beef and mushrooms. This will help thicken the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the oils and blend smoothly.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Simmer

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the mixture starts to thicken, pour in the heavy whipping cream and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick and creamy.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The sauce should be silky, flavorful, and rich.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your ground beef stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color.

This easy recipe is comforting, creamy, and hearty—perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

2. Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Use Lean Ground Beef:

Leaner beef (around 90% lean) reduces excess grease and results in a cleaner, richer sauce.

Don’t Skip the Mushrooms:

Mushrooms add umami flavor and texture. Try using a mix of cremini and white button mushrooms for depth.

Avoid Curdling the Sauce:

When adding sour cream, make sure the pan is off the heat. Adding it to boiling sauce can cause curdling.

Make It Creamier:

If you prefer a richer consistency, add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk to the sauce.

Thickening Tip:

If your sauce feels too thin, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in while simmering.

Serve Fresh:

Stroganoff tastes best right after cooking. If reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat to preserve the creamy texture.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make beef stroganoff ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stroganoff a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat and stir in a bit of cream or broth to restore the texture.

What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms work perfectly. You can also use a mix of wild mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

Can I freeze beef stroganoff?

Yes, but note that the cream-based sauce may slightly change texture after freezing. If freezing, cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with beef stroganoff?

Classic sides include buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch, and make sure the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free.

4. Nutrition Information

This Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe using ground beef is the perfect comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to noodles or rice, while the combination of mushrooms, onions, and beef creates a savory richness that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort.