30-Minute Beef Stroganoff

This ground beef stroganoff transforms humble ingredients into a rich, creamy dinner that tastes like it simmered all day but comes together in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender egg noodles, savory beef, and a velvety sauce creates the ultimate comfort food experience for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss.

I started making this recipe when my kids were going through picky eating phases and was amazed when they both cleaned their plates. Now it's our go to meal whenever we need something cozy and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ground beef the foundation of the dish provides hearty protein and savory flavor use 80/20 for best flavor
• Egg noodles traditional choice for stroganoff that perfectly holds the creamy sauce look for wide egg noodles
• Butter creates the base for our roux and adds richness to the final dish use unsalted to control salt levels
• Flour works with butter to thicken the sauce without any lumps choose all purpose
• Beef broth provides depth and meaty flavor use low sodium if possible
• Milk creates creaminess without heaviness whole milk works best here
• Sour cream adds tanginess and silky texture that defines classic stroganoff use full fat for best results
• Garlic powder convenient way to add garlic flavor throughout the sauce
• Onion powder provides sweet onion flavor without the texture choose fresh powder for best flavor
• Salt and pepper essential seasonings that bring all flavors together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until just al dente about 5 to 7 minutes. They should have a slight bite as they will continue cooking slightly when added to the sauce. Drain well but do not rinse as the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the ground beef breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains and the beef is well browned about 6 to 8 minutes. The caramelization adds essential flavor so take your time with this step. Drain excess fat to ensure your sauce isn't greasy.

Create the Roux Base

In the same skillet melt the butter over medium heat until it foams slightly. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes. The mixture should turn light golden brown and smell slightly nutty. This cooking step removes the raw flour taste and creates the foundation for a smooth sauce.

Develop the Sauce

Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it begins to thicken. Then slowly add the milk continuing to whisk over medium heat for another 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. This gradual building creates depth of flavor.

Season and Combine

Add the garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper stirring to distribute evenly throughout the sauce. Reduce heat to low and carefully fold in the cooked noodles and browned beef ensuring everything is well coated with the creamy sauce. The low heat prevents the sauce from breaking.

Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and let cool for about 1 minute. Gently stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Adding it off the heat prevents curdling while still allowing the tanginess to permeate the dish. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving immediately.

Bookmark

This dish reminds me of my grandmother who made a version with thinly sliced beef. While hers took hours to prepare she always said the secret was in the sour cream. I've simplified her recipe using ground beef but still follow her advice about folding in the sour cream last for that perfect tangy finish that makes stroganoff special.

Make Ahead and Meal Prep

This stroganoff reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal prep. Prepare the entire recipe and store in portioned containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors actually develop further after a day in the refrigerator. If you find the sauce has thickened too much when reheating add a splash of milk or broth and stir gently until reaching desired consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

While traditional stroganoff uses beef you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Simply adjust the cooking time as poultry grounds cook faster than beef. For a vegetarian option use a pound of mixed mushrooms sautéed until deeply browned in place of the meat. You can also swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining the tangy flavor profile that makes stroganoff distinctive.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty stroganoff with a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli to add color and nutrition to your plate. For an extra special touch add a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish. For casual entertaining serve family style in a large bowl with chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top for a pop of color.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover stroganoff in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken significantly when chilled. When reheating microwave in 30 second intervals stirring between each until just heated through about 2 minutes total. Alternatively reheat in a skillet over medium low heat adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. I don't recommend freezing this dish as dairy based sauces can separate when thawed resulting in a grainy texture.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for this beef stroganoff?

Yes, you can use any pasta variety, but stick to the 6-ounce measurement to ensure there's enough sauce to properly coat the noodles. Wide egg noodles are traditional and recommended for the best texture and sauce adherence.

→ How do I store leftover beef stroganoff?

Allow the stroganoff to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments until thoroughly warmed.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stroganoff reheats beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Many find the flavors deepen overnight, resulting in an even tastier dish the next day.

→ What can I serve with beef stroganoff?

Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal. Garlic toast or a simple side salad also complement the rich, creamy flavors perfectly.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well. For a more traditional approach, you could use thinly sliced beef sirloin, though this may increase cooking time slightly.

→ Why is there a recommendation to double the recipe?

This dish tends to disappear quickly as family members often request seconds! Additionally, the leftovers reheat exceptionally well, making future meals even easier to prepare.