Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting flavors of a creamy, savory Beef Stroganoff to warm you up after a busy day. This quick and easy version delivers all the deliciousness of the classic dish without the hassle of complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Tender beef, a luscious mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for weeknight dinners.

this Recipe

I discovered this simplified recipe when juggling work and family commitments left me short on time but craving something hearty. Now, it’s a staple in our home, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Ready to whip up your new go-to dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this quick and cozy meal. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe has something for everyone.

First, it’s lightning-fast. While traditional Stroganoff can take hours to prepare, this version is ready in just 25–30 minutes. It’s perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something homemade and comforting.

Next, it’s incredibly affordable. Using ground beef instead of pricier cuts like sirloin keeps the cost down without sacrificing flavor, making it a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

The creamy sauce is a real showstopper. A blend of sour cream, beef broth, and savory seasonings creates a velvety texture that clings to every strand of pasta or scoop of rice. It’s a surefire way to elevate simple ingredients into something spectacular.

Lastly, this recipe is adaptable. Whether you want to swap out ingredients to suit dietary needs or jazz it up with your favorite add-ins, it’s flexible enough to make your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a role in creating that signature Stroganoff taste.

Ground Beef: This recipe uses ground beef for ease and affordability, but feel free to substitute with thinly sliced steak if you’re looking for a more traditional touch. Choose a lean blend to keep the sauce from getting too greasy.

Mushrooms: Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work wonderfully here. Their earthy flavor adds depth to the sauce and balances the richness of the cream.

Onions and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor. Dice the onions finely and mince the garlic to ensure they blend seamlessly into the sauce.

Beef Broth: Use a high-quality beef broth for the best results. It forms the base of the sauce and adds a rich, savory note that ties everything together.

Sour Cream: This is the star ingredient for the creamy consistency and tangy flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet and a pot for boiling noodles, and you're good to go.

How To Make This Easy Beef Stroganoff

Creating this comforting meal is a breeze, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these simple steps for a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta (egg noodles are classic) according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, keeping the pasta warm.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the dish light.

Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan by adding the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the sauce slightly.

Lower the heat and return the cooked ground beef to the pan. Stir in the sour cream, mixing gently to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for an added kick.

Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Beef Stroganoff stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

To refrigerate, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, allow the Stroganoff to cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just note that the texture of the sour cream sauce may change slightly after freezing—stir well when reheating to bring it back together.

Reheating is simple: gently warm the Stroganoff in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

For a vegetarian twist, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or additional mushrooms for a meaty texture.

If you prefer chicken, swap out the beef for diced boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. The cooking process remains the same, and you’ll end up with a delicious Chicken Stroganoff.

To add extra veggies, toss in a handful of spinach or peas toward the end of cooking. They’ll brighten the dish and provide an extra dose of nutrition.

Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.

Experiment with different noodles—penne, rotini, or even rice make great alternatives to classic egg noodles.

This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, so don’t be afraid to get adventurous. Each variation brings a new twist to the classic dish while maintaining its comforting essence.

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