It's a one-skillet wonder that's ready in about 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or days when you don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. It's got a creamy, flavorful sauce that's made from scratch while still being quick and easy. Serve it over rice, noodles or mashed potatoes of your choice.
For a traditional alternative, see our recipe Old-fashioned beef stroganoff.
Why our recipe?
- A one-skillet meal ready in about 30 minutes to keep dinner simple.
- The classic flavor of stroganoff uses ground beef to keep things budget-friendly.
- Serve over rice or try it with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
Stroganoff is one of those classic comfort foods that many of us grew up enjoying. Usually, it is made with steak which is obviously more expensive than ground beef. And that pairing with the hamburger boxed? They've got nothing on this flavor and it's ready in about the same amount of time. Filled with perfectly smooth and flavorful ground beef, it pairs wonderfully with white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Once you try homemade stroganoff, you'll never look at the boxed version the same way again!
Material notes
- White Rice: The instructions are written for long grain white rice. Use any brand you want. Brown rice can be used as an alternative, just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
- White Onion: Yellow onions also work. We diced ours for texture, but you can also dice to blend more with the sauce.
- Mushrooms: White button, cremini or portobello mushrooms are great choices.
- Ground Beef: Choose beef that is at least 80/20 lean or lean to avoid excess grease. When draining, drain excess grease and discard butter until only 2 tablespoons remain. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used.
- Butter: Either salted or unsalted butter works; If using unsalted, add a pinch of salt.
- All-Purpose Flour: Regular white flour is best for thickening the sauce – don't skip this step! For a gluten-free alternative, use 2 tablespoons cornstarch instead.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels, which control flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce with a little vinegar can be used instead.
- Garlic Powder: Be sure to use garlic powder, not garlic salt.
- Sour Cream: You can use plain Greek yogurt instead.
- Dijon Mustard: Optional, but it adds a mild tang that balances the richness of the sauce.
Ground beef substitute
We recommend using 80/20 ground beef For this recipe. Extra fat enhances flavor and provides just the right amount of juiciness to keep your ground beef from being dry.
If you prefer a leaner option, As with the 90/10, you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter during cooking to prevent the meat from drying out.
Ground turkey or chicken Also works well for a lighter version, although the flavor will be lighter. You can even use ground lamb or a mixture of ground beef and pork for more flavor.
Substitute for rice
Although the recipe is written for long grain white rice, you can use whatever you like. Brown rice is a nutritious option that works beautifully with creamy stroganoff sauce. Just be sure to follow package directions when cooking, as it takes longer than white rice.
For a quick option, you can even use instant rice. Cauliflower rice also works well if you're looking for a low-carb or grain-free option.
Serve with noodles or potatoes
Rice is not the only option for serving. Egg noodles A traditional choice for stroganoff. To prepare, cook noodles according to package directions and toss with a little butter before serving.
If you're in the mood for comfort food, mashed potatoes An excellent choice. Make your own at home Or use instant mashed potatoes for the easiest option.
Storage and reheating instructions
Keep in fridge the remainder Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze leftovers Up to 3 months in an airtight, freezer-safe container. For the best texture, freeze the stroganoff sauce and rice separately. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat on stove top In a skillet over medium-low heat, stir occasionally. Avoid boiling to curdle.
Reheat in microwave on high, stirring in 30-second intervals, until warmed through.