Beef Stroganoff is a beloved Russian-inspired dish that has found a permanent place in kitchens worldwide. Traditionally made with strips of beef, this comforting recipe gets a budget-friendly and time-saving twist by using ground beef (hamburger) instead. The result? A creamy, savory, and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
This version delivers the same rich flavors—thanks to ingredients like sour cream, onions, and mushrooms—but with easier prep and faster cooking. It’s a favorite for busy families, nostalgic eaters, and anyone who loves one-pan comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (hamburger)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
Optional Garnishes:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Paprika sprinkle
Substitutions:
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Dairy-free? Use unsweetened coconut cream or plant-based sour cream.
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Gluten-free? Swap noodles for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour.
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Vegetarian? Use plant-based ground meat or lentils and vegetable broth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Remove and set aside if needed to drain excess fat.
3. Sauté aromatics:
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms are soft and slightly browned.
4. Add flour:
Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste of the flour.
5. Make the sauce:
Gradually add the beef broth while stirring. Bring to a simmer. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce thicken, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Stir in sour cream:
Reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream until the sauce becomes creamy. Return cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine and serve:
Add cooked noodles to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Heat until warmed through. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Common mistakes to avoid:
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Overcooking the noodles: They’ll turn mushy when mixed into the sauce.
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Adding sour cream over high heat: Can cause curdling. Always lower the heat first.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Searing tip: Browning the meat properly adds depth of flavor.
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Mushroom boost: Use a mix of cremini and shiitake for a richer umami profile.
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Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream for an extra silky finish.
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Use cast iron or stainless steel pans for better browning and even cooking.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
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Low-Carb Version: Serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.
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Kid-Friendly Version: Skip mushrooms or blend them finely so they blend into the sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Tips:
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Serve in wide bowls for a rustic, cozy feel.
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Top with chopped fresh parsley and a dash of paprika for color contrast.
Perfect Pairings:
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Garlic bread or crusty baguette
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Green beans almondine or steamed broccoli
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Light salads with vinaigrette
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A glass of light red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 510
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 42g
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Fat: 27g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 620mg
Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat and mix with freshly cooked noodles before serving.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, but freeze the sauce and beef separately from the noodles to avoid sogginess.
Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or even cream cheese can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Closing Thoughts
Beef Stroganoff with hamburger is the ultimate blend of convenience and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or cooking for one, this creamy, flavorful dish brings classic elegance to everyday meals.
