Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor, Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is that soul-warming classic you’ll want to tuck into all year long. Imagine tender egg noodles coated in a silky, savory sauce, mingling with rich ground beef and a tangy touch of sour cream—it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, all made in one skillet and on your table in less than an hour. Whether you’re juggling weeknight chaos or hosting a last-minute dinner for friends, this beloved recipe delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss. If you’ve been craving a retro favorite with a modern, fuss-free twist, look no further than Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this dish shine is its lineup of everyday ingredients—each one adding its own special note to the finished stroganoff. Every element serves a delicious purpose, from the robustly savory beef to the creamy sauce, cozy noodles, and punchy spices.

• Ground Beef: Opt for 80-85% lean for the best balance of flavor and tenderness—browning it is the secret to rich, meaty depth.
• Egg Noodles: Classic stroganoff calls for these wonderfully sturdy noodles; their texture soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest sauce, but 2% will work if you prefer a lighter version.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a subtle savory backbone and gives the sauce lovely body and flavor—swap for beef broth for extra richness.
• Sour Cream: The star ingredient for that signature tangy finish; don’t skip it!
• Butter: Adds richness and helps form a silky roux as the base for your sauce.
• Flour: Key for thickening your sauce and giving it that classic creamy texture.
• Salt: Essential for balancing the flavors; taste as you go and adjust if needed.
• Coarse Black Pepper: Provides warmth and a gentle bite—freshly cracked is best.
• Garlic Powder: Brings depth and subtle aromatic flavor to the sauce with zero hassle.
• Onion Powder: Offers a sweet, savory lift that plays perfectly with the other spices without needing to chop a thing.

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Start by bringing a big pot of water to a steady boil, then add your egg noodles. Cook them just as the package directs—al dente is best so they stay firm and toothsome. As soon as they’re drained, set the noodles aside; they’ll be ready for their creamy reunion in just a bit!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the noodles do their thing, grab a roomy skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in your ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it get gorgeously browned all over with no pink left—about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off any extra fat, then transfer the beef to a plate. Having it ready makes assembly a breeze.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Keep that skillet on the stove! Pop in the butter and let it melt, then sprinkle the flour over the top. Whisk constantly for about 2 minutes. This step builds the foundation of your sauce, setting the stage for ultimate creaminess and flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Whisk in the Chicken Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking the roux. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. Keep whisking for 3 to 4 minutes as it gently thickens, infusing the base with savory goodness.

Step 5: Add the Milk and Thicken

Now, gradually add the milk, whisking all the while. Let this bubble away on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. You’ll see the sauce turn lush, thick, and oh-so-creamy—exactly perfect for stroganoff!

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to fully incorporate the spices, letting them melt together and transform the sauce into something you’ll want to taste straight from the pan.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat to low, pop the cooked noodles and browned beef back into the skillet, and gently mix it all together. Each noodle and morsel of beef gets a generous cloak of sauce, making every forkful as comforting as the last.

Step 8: Stir in Sour Cream

The finishing touch! Spoon in the sour cream and fold it through until it’s seamlessly blended. Its tangy creaminess lifts the whole dish, giving Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff that signature flavor you know and love.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Dish up your steaming stroganoff straight away, either piled high in bowls or on plates. Pair with your favorite veggie or a slice of garlicky bread for a meal that’s pure, retro joy with every bite.

How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Garnishes

For that all-important finishing touch, fresh garnishes make a world of difference. Sprinkle a little chopped parsley or dill over each serving for a burst of color and herbal brightness, or add a few extra cracks of black pepper for a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff truly soaks up the spotlight but loves a sidekick! A crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or even simple steamed green beans are wonderful for color and crunch. Don’t forget a wedge of crusty bread or garlic toast to help mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get playful, serve Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff in individual ramekins for a fun dinner party twist, or spoon it over a bed of mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting spin. For kids, try layering it in a bowl with peas and cheddar—taco style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then spoon them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff will keep well for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully and makes a fabulous next-day lunch!

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? This dish freezes well! Simply transfer cooled stroganoff (without garnishes) to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual portions in a skillet over low heat or microwave in a covered dish. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems thick, and stir gently until everything is hot and creamy again. The flavors are even better the next day!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional for Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff, feel free to use rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference. Just cook until al dente and proceed as usual.

Is it possible to make this recipe lighter?

Yes! You can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey, swap in low-fat milk and light sour cream, and try using whole wheat noodles for a fiber boost. The result is still creamy, cozy, and delicious.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Of course! Sauté sliced mushrooms or diced bell pepper in the skillet after browning the beef, removing the vegetables before making the roux. Add them back in with the beef and noodles for extra flavor and color.

Will this recipe work with beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, swapping chicken broth for beef broth is a classic move and brings a deeper, savorier flavor to Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff. Use what you have on hand and enjoy the results!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just double each ingredient and use a large skillet or Dutch oven to keep everything contained. This is a fantastic meal for get-togethers or meal prepping for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a table to share Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff—a meal that’s as comforting as it is easy. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is a warm hug that always hits the spot. Give it a try, and let this classic earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

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