If you’ve been hunting for a hearty, comforting, and absolutely satisfying dinner that comes together in no time, this Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor, this dish brilliantly combines tender ground beef, luscious mushrooms, and a tangy sour cream sauce over wide egg noodles in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those meals that feels special but doesn’t demand hours of prep or fancy techniques, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend supper that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple, easy to find, and plays a crucial role in creating those comforting, classic Stroganoff flavors and textures. From the richness of the sour cream to the earthy mushrooms and the tender noodles, each element comes together beautifully without any fuss.
- 12 ounces dried wide egg noodles: The perfect base, wide noodles hold onto the creamy sauce so every bite is indulgent.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds smooth richness and helps soften the onion and garlic for a sweet aroma.
- 1 medium sweet onion, finely diced: Brings a mild, caramelized sweetness that balances the savory beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that complements mushrooms and beef perfectly.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein here, providing hearty flavor without being greasy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that classic Stroganoff creaminess.
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste and seasons the beef beautifully.
- 3/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A little herbal warmth that brightens the sauce and blends with the tomato paste.
- 6-ounce can tomato paste: Adds depth and a subtle tang that balances the richness of sour cream.
- 10-ounce can condensed beef consommé: Intensifies the beef flavor and creates a luscious base for the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar: Introduces a hint of acidity to cut through the creaminess and elevate the dish.
- 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms: Earthy and tender, they add incredible texture and flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: The luscious finish that makes this Stroganoff irresistibly creamy and tangy.
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, green brightness and a pop of color to the final dish.
How to Make Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking the wide egg noodles until they are perfectly al dente, which means they still have a slight bite to them. This texture is important because the noodles will soak up some of the creamy sauce, but you don’t want them to become mushy. Drain the noodles and set them aside for serving later. This simple first step builds the sturdy base your sauce will shine over.
Step 2: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Brown Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium-high heat and add the finely diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Next, toss in the ground beef. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon so it browns evenly and develops those rich, savory flavors. Once browned, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy while still maintaining its hearty goodness.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour, coarse salt, and dried Italian herbs, mixing thoroughly to coat the beef mixture. This is the foundation for your thick and creamy sauce. Then stir in the tomato paste, beef consommé, and white wine vinegar, blending everything into one harmonious mixture. Finally, add the sliced cremini mushrooms, which will absorb the flavors and contribute a lovely tender bite.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to medium and let the stroganoff simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the mushrooms will soften, and the sauce will thicken beautifully as the flavors meld together. Make sure to stir occasionally so your sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan, transforming the simple ingredients into a rich, savory masterpiece.
Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and warm—avoid boiling after adding sour cream to prevent curdling. Serve this luscious sauce over your cooked noodles, then sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh finish that makes every bite feel just right. You are now ready to enjoy this classic comfort food favorite with a twist of simplicity and speed.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a lovely green pop of color but also lifts the dish with a subtle herbal brightness. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a few twists of freshly ground black pepper or a light dusting of smoked paprika for a warm, subtle complexity that complements the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, thanks to the rich sauce and noodles, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach are excellent choices, adding a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich Stroganoff flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the Stroganoff into individual ramekins and garnish each with parsley and a light drizzle of extra sour cream on top. You could also serve the sauce over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta instead of noodles for a new but equally comforting experience. Another idea is to pile the stroganoff atop toasted baguette slices for a casual yet elegant appetizer or light meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Store the entire stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
This Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe freezes beautifully. Place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results. Keep in mind, sour cream sauces might separate slightly after freezing, but gentle reheating and stirring will bring it back together.
Reheating
For reheating, warm the stroganoff gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of beef broth, milk, or water if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid high heat to maintain the creamy texture and flavor. This method will refresh your leftovers to taste just as delightful as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind the flavor will be a bit lighter, so you might want to add a little extra seasoning to compensate.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and ensure your egg noodles are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the classic flavors without worrying about gluten.
Can I prepare this dish without mushrooms?
Definitely. While mushrooms add wonderful earthiness and texture, you can omit them or substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this stroganoff dairy-free, choose dairy-free sour cream alternatives, such as coconut or cashew-based versions. Also, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep it creamy and delicious.
What’s the best type of noodles to use?
Wide egg noodles are traditional because their broad surface holds the sauce well. However, feel free to use other pasta shapes you love, like pappardelle or even fettuccine, for an equally satisfying dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a bowl of stroganoff, especially when it comes together as quickly and effortlessly as this Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe allows. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply craving a flavorful, homey meal after a busy day, this recipe delivers big on taste without taking over your evening. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
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Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender ground beef and cremini mushrooms in a creamy, tangy sauce served over al dente wide egg noodles, this recipe combines simple ingredients with classic flavors to create a satisfying dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces dried wide egg noodles
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 3/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 10-ounce can condensed beef consommé
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup sour cream
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the dried wide egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and brown beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely diced sweet onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the all-purpose flour, coarse salt, and dried Italian herbs to coat the meat mixture. Then add the tomato paste, condensed beef consommé, white wine vinegar, and sliced cremini mushrooms. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the mushrooms to become tender and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Finish with sour cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated and warmed through, creating a creamy stroganoff sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the cooked egg noodles and top with the ground beef stroganoff sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Be sure to drain excess fat from the browned ground beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- If sour cream tends to curdle, temper it by mixing a few spoonfuls of hot sauce into the sour cream before adding it to the skillet.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute beef consommé with beef broth, though it may soften the intensity slightly.
- Feel free to substitute wide egg noodles with other pasta types like fettuccine or pappardelle.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for thickening and gluten-free noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
