Creamy ground beef stroganoff

When I need something cozy, filling, and fuss-free, this creamy ground beef stroganoff is my go-to dinner.

It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in under 30 minutes – a total lifesaver on busy weeknights.

With tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy mushroom gravy, every bite tastes like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All-in-one skillet meal – Protein, carbs, and flavor in one pan.

Super fast – On the table in about 25 minutes.

Kid-approved – Creamy, not too spicy, and familiar flavors.

Pantry-friendly – Uses basic ingredients you likely already have.

Comfort food classic – Without the need for fancy cuts of beef.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Lean ground beef: Quick-cooking and protein-packed.

Onion + spices: Add savory depth and balance.

Brown gravy mix: The shortcut to rich, beefy flavor.

Cream of mushroom soup: Creamy and comforting with umami.

Sour cream: Adds tang and velvety texture.

Wide egg noodles: The perfect base to soak up that sauce.

Dried parsley: A simple herby finish that brightens the dish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Start boiling the water for noodles early – it saves time later.

Brown the beef deeply for added flavor before adding sauces.

Whisk gravy mix with cold water to avoid lumps.

Don’t rinse the noodles – you want that starch to help the sauce cling.

Stir gently when combining noodles and sauce to keep the texture creamy.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Boil the Water

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.

Add a teaspoon of salt to the water for seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook and crumble the beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Add Gravy Base

In a small bowl, whisk the brown gravy mix with 1 cup cold water until smooth.

Pour this into the skillet with the beef.

Stir to combine.

Step 4: Stir in Creamy Ingredients

Add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.

Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Let it simmer on medium-low heat while the noodles cook.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Add egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes).

Drain well but do not rinse.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles and dried parsley to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.

Stir everything together gently until evenly coated and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon into bowls and enjoy hot! Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

What to Serve It With

Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

Crusty bread or garlic toast

A glass of iced tea or red wine for a cozy dinner

Variations / Substitutions

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.

No cream of mushroom? Use cream of chicken or make a homemade white sauce.

Make it extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

Add veggies: Mushrooms, peas, or spinach blend in beautifully.

Gluten-free? Use GF egg noodles and check your gravy mix.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Microwave in 30-second bursts or warm in a skillet with a splash of milk.

Freezer: Freeze cooled stroganoff (without noodles) for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight and stir in freshly cooked noodles.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gravy instead of a mix?
Absolutely – just make a simple beef gravy from broth, flour, and butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the beef and sauce, then add fresh noodles before serving.

What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or softened cream cheese.

Can I use different pasta?
Yes! Rotini, penne, or even rice work well if you don’t have egg noodles.

Why is my sauce too thick or thin?
Add a splash of milk to loosen, or simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Can I freeze leftovers with noodles?
Noodles can become soft after freezing, but it still works in a pinch.

For best texture, freeze sauce only.

Is this spicy?
Nope! But you can add a dash of hot sauce or paprika for a kick.

Final Thoughts

This creamy ground beef stroganoff is the perfect answer to those “What’s for dinner?” nights when you want something fast, filling, and delicious.

With hearty noodles, savory beef, and that rich, comforting sauce, it’s no surprise this dish is a family favorite—and a repeat on my dinner menu.