Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef – Easy, Creamy, and Delicious Homemade Recipe

Introduction

Few dishes comfort the soul quite like a creamy plate of beef stroganoff with ground beef. The aroma of sautéed onions, tender meat, and rich sauce fills the kitchen with warmth that makes every bite feel like home. This timeless dish has roots that trace back to Russian cuisine, yet it has become a beloved meal across countless households worldwide. The beauty of this version lies in its simplicity. By using ground beef instead of steak strips, you can enjoy the same hearty flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Creating beef stroganoff with ground beef starts with basic ingredients that work together to form layers of flavor. Below is a table listing the ingredients along with their approximate calorie count per serving.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories
Ground Beef (80% lean)	1 pound	800
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons	240
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	45
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves	15
Mushrooms (sliced)	2 cups	30
All-Purpose Flour	2 tablespoons	60
Beef Broth	2 cups	30
Worcestershire Sauce	1 tablespoon	15
Dijon Mustard	1 tablespoon	10
Sour Cream	1 cup	450
Egg Noodles (cooked)	8 ounces	300
Salt and Black Pepper	To taste	5
Fresh Parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	5

Total Estimated Calories per Serving: about 500–550 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking beef stroganoff with ground beef is straightforward, yet every step adds flavor and texture. Follow these simple directions for a perfectly creamy result.

1. Prepare the ingredients
   Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms. Keep everything ready before heating the pan, as the cooking process moves quickly once it starts.
2. Brown the ground beef
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown. Break it apart with a wooden spoon to create even crumbles. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to season. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Cook the vegetables
   In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if the pan seems dry. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it turns translucent. Add garlic and sauté for about a minute, releasing its aromatic flavor. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and slightly golden.
4. Create the sauce base
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. The flour helps thicken the sauce later. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. The mixture will start to thicken as it simmers.
5. Add seasonings
   Mix in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. These ingredients add tangy depth and enhance the savory flavor of the beef. Stir until well combined.
6. Return the beef to the skillet
   Add the cooked ground beef back into the pan and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Let the mixture simmer for about five to seven minutes so that the flavors blend beautifully.
7. Finish with sour cream
   Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add sour cream. Stir slowly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Do not let it boil, as this could cause the sour cream to curdle. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
8. Combine with noodles
   Add the cooked egg noodles directly into the sauce, gently folding them in until everything is coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of beef broth or warm water to reach your preferred consistency.
9. Serve and garnish
   Plate the stroganoff and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

A good beef stroganoff with ground beef allows room for creativity. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences or flavor preferences.

• For a lighter version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option that still adds creaminess.
• For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.
• Vegetable lovers can add peas, spinach, or bell peppers for color and extra nutrients.
• For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour as a thickener and pair with gluten-free noodles or rice.
• For a deeper flavor, add a small amount of red wine while simmering the sauce before adding sour cream.
• Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of paprika.

Experimenting with these small changes helps you find the perfect flavor that matches your personal taste.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of beef stroganoff with ground beef provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Serving Suggestions

Beef stroganoff with ground beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. For a complete and satisfying meal, consider serving it with one of these options:

• Garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy and comforting base
• Steamed rice to absorb the rich sauce beautifully
• Buttered egg noodles, the most traditional pairing for stroganoff
• Fresh green beans or roasted broccoli to balance the richness with freshness
• A side salad with crisp greens and light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving adds a burst of color and aroma that enhances the presentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze beef stroganoff with ground beef?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche works perfectly as substitutes. They give the same creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor.

Can I make it without mushrooms?
Absolutely. You can skip mushrooms or replace them with zucchini, bell peppers, or even peas for a different twist.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Always add sour cream at low heat and avoid boiling once it is added. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth.

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Conclusion

A warm plate of beef stroganoff with ground beef captures everything that makes home cooking so special. The flavors are rich yet comforting, the texture is creamy, and the entire dish comes together in less than an hour. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you crave something hearty and delicious. Cooking it once often leads to making it again, as everyone who tastes it will ask for more. A spoonful of this classic dish feels like a cozy embrace, filled with comfort and flavor in every bite.