Ground Beef Stroganoff (Easy 30-Minute Comfort Food Classic)

It was a rainy Tuesday. The kind that calls for stretchy pants, a cozy kitchen, and something creamy bubbling on the stove. I had ground beef thawed and not much else, so I leaned on an old favorite: Ground Beef Stroganoff. In just 30 minutes, dinner was on the table, rich and comforting, with tender noodles tangled in a silky, savory sauce. This one always brings everyone back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is everything I want on a busy night. It’s quick, cozy, and easy on the wallet. You don’t need canned soup or fancy ingredients, just real food and a little love. The creamy sauce coats every bite, and the ground beef makes it hearty and filling. Kids devour it. Grown-ups sneak extra spoonfuls straight from the pot. It’s one of those simple dinners that feels like a warm hug after a long day. You can dress it up or keep it plain – it’s so versatile. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers a bonus.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You likely have most of these in your pantry or fridge already. That’s one reason this dish is such a weeknight winner.

Key Ingredients

• Ground beef – hearty, flavorful, and cooks fast
• Egg noodles – soft, chewy, and perfect for soaking up sauce
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – gives that signature creamy tang
• Beef broth, flour, and butter – create a simple, rich roux
• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper – for savory depth

Optional Add-ins

• Mushrooms – for earthiness (just sauté with the beef)
• Worcestershire sauce or Dijon – adds a pop of umami
• Frozen peas or spinach – toss in for color and extra veggies

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff (Step-by-Step)

This dish comes together in one pan and one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s walk through it.

Step 1 – Boil the noodles

Start by boiling the egg noodles. Cook them 2 minutes less than the package says. This keeps them from turning mushy later. Don’t rinse – just drain and set aside. You can save a little pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2 – Brown the beef

Next, grab a large skillet. Brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess grease. If you’re using mushrooms or onions, now’s the time to add them. Cook until soft and fragrant.

Step 3 – Make the creamy sauce

Push the beef aside or set it on a plate. Melt the butter in the same skillet, then whisk in the flour. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly add the beef broth, whisking constantly, then stir in the milk. Simmer until thick and smooth.

Step 4 – Combine and serve

Lower the heat and return the beef to the pan. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked noodles and gently toss to coat. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Serve hot, with a sprinkle of parsley if you like.

Easy Substitutions & Variations

Cooking with what you have? Here’s how to make this recipe fit your pantry:

• No sour cream? Use Greek yogurt or even cream cheese.
• Want a vegetarian version? Try mushrooms and lentils.
• Need a lighter option? Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully.
• Feeling fancy? Stir in a splash of Worcestershire or a bit of Dijon.

It’s a forgiving recipe. Just keep the noodle-to-sauce ratio in check – that 6-ounce noodle tip is golden.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Have leftovers? Lucky you. This dish stores and reheats like a dream.

• Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave in 30-second bursts or warm on the stove. Add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

This is a great one to double and portion out for later. Perfect for meal prep or sending along in lunchboxes.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff

Round out your meal with something simple and fresh:

• Steamed broccoli or peas
• Buttered green beans
• A crisp tossed salad
• Garlic bread for extra coziness

You can find more easy dinner recipes here in our dinner category or explore our favorite slow cooker meals for cozy days ahead.

And for even more comfort food ideas, check out our Pinterest boards.

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