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There’s something wildly comforting about a skillet of creamy beef stroganoff bubbling on the stove. It’s rich without being fussy, filling without putting you in a food coma, and just complicated enough to feel like you’ve cooked but not stressed. For me, Simple Beef Stroganoff is one of those recipes that always comes to the rescue on busy weeknights. Whether I’m juggling homework help, laundry piles, or just trying to get dinner on the table before everyone gets “hangry,” this dish never lets me down.
In this post, I’ll walk you through my foolproof method for making simple beef stroganoff from scratch. We’ll cover ground beef options, steak swaps, Instant Pot shortcuts, and even a no-Dijon version for picky eaters. You’ll also get tips for using sour cream without curdling and how to make it ahead or freeze leftovers.
Whether you grew up eating a version with cream of mushroom soup or you’re discovering stroganoff for the first time, this recipe delivers the kind of hearty flavor that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
Let’s make dinner delicious and do-able without the drama.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
- Simple Beef Stroganoff is a creamy one-pan dinner made with ground or sliced beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream.
- Cooks in 30 minutes or less, perfect for weeknights.
- Use ground beef, steak strips, or chuck roast (slow cooker friendly).
- No Dijon? No problem you can skip it or sub Worcestershire sauce.
- Works in a skillet, Instant Pot, or slow cooker.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Pair with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
The Story Behind My Simple Beef Stroganoff
What is easy beef stroganoff, really?
Easy beef stroganoff is a streamlined version of the classic Russian dish made with sautéed beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. Traditionally made with tenderloin, I swap that for ground beef or steak strips to keep it budget-friendly and quick to cook.
It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and homemade, but takes very little effort. Everything cooks in one pan, the ingredients are pantry staples, and clean-up is minimal. Add some buttered egg noodles or even leftover rice, and you’ve got a complete dinner with protein, carbs, and soul-satisfying flavor.
The night that sold me on Stroganoff
I remember the first time I really fell for this dish. It was a cold Tuesday night. One of the kids had a science project due, the other was melting down over math homework, and I had zero motivation. I opened the fridge and found half a pound of ground beef, an onion, and a lonely tub of sour cream. Out of desperation, I tossed them in a skillet, added a splash of beef broth and some egg noodles, and prayed.
The result? Creamy, savory perfection. My kids gobbled it down, my husband asked for seconds, and I felt like a kitchen magician. That’s when simple beef stroganoff became a permanent part of my meal rotation.
How Long Does Stroganoff Take to Make?
Can you make beef stroganoff in under 30 minutes?
Yes, you absolutely can make simple beef stroganoff in under 30 minutes. In fact, with a little planning (and maybe some pre-chopped onions), you can have it on the table in just 25 minutes flat.
Here’s a quick breakdown of timing:
| Step | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Sauté onions & garlic | 5 |
| Brown the beef | 5 |
| Add broth + seasoning | 2 |
| Simmer sauce | 8 |
| Stir in sour cream | 2 |
| Serve over noodles | 3 |
| Total | 25 |
You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. And if you use ground beef instead of steak, it cooks even faster.
How does Instant Pot or slow cooker change the timing?
If you love set-it-and-forget-it meals, you’ll be happy to know that slow cooker beef stroganoff and simple beef stroganoff in the Instant Pot are both amazing.
Here’s how timing adjusts for each:
| Method | Prep Time | Cook Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skillet (Stovetop) | 10 min | 15 min | Best for quick weeknight meals |
| Slow Cooker | 10 min | 6–8 hours | Use beef chuck or round steak |
| Instant Pot | 10 min | 20 min | Pressure cooking = tender in record time |
For slow cooker recipes, I like using beef round steak or stew meat tough cuts that melt into fork-tender perfection.
With the Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the meat, then pressure cook with broth and mushrooms for 15–20 minutes. Stir in sour cream at the end to avoid curdling.
No matter which way you go, this dish is flexible, forgiving, and always worth the (minimal) effort.
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff?
What’s the easiest way to make simple beef stroganoff with ground beef?
Simple beef stroganoff with ground beef is honestly one of the most straightforward dinners you’ll ever make. It’s a one-pan wonder that turns basic ingredients into something warm, creamy, and crave-worthy.
Here’s how I make my version of this simple beef stroganoff recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (I use 85/15 for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add aromatics. Stir in butter, onions, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Toss in mushrooms. Let them cook until golden and tender.
- Make it saucy. Sprinkle in the flour and stir until everything’s coated. Slowly pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in sour cream. Reduce heat and fold in sour cream. Let it warm through (don’t boil or it may curdle).
- Serve. Spoon that creamy, savory simple beef stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes.
For a slightly different twist, you can check out how I use similar flavors in this Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms, which also uses savory gravy magic.
Why is this simple beef stroganoff recipe so popular?
Three words: Easy. Fast. Family-friendly.
Unlike traditional beef stroganoff that uses pricier cuts of steak, simple beef stroganoff with ground beef is affordable and still super flavorful. Using ground beef cuts down the cook time without sacrificing that creamy, rich texture we all love. The sour cream makes it tangy and smooth, while the mushrooms add depth.
This version of simple beef stroganoff also adapts well to dietary tweaks low sodium broth, gluten-free flour, or even Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. I’ve made it every which way, and it still disappears from the dinner table faster than I can sit down.
It’s no wonder why this dish keeps trending on AllRecipes and Pinterest. It’s the kind of meal that brings people back for seconds, and maybe even thirds.
How Do You Cook Beef Stroganoff Without Dijon?
Can you make simple beef stroganoff without mustard?
Absolutely. You can make simple beef stroganoff without Dijon mustard and still get that rich, savory flavor. Dijon adds a subtle tang and depth to classic stroganoff recipes, but it’s not a deal-breaker if you’re out or simply don’t like it (I’ve got a picky eater in my house too so I get it!).
Instead, try one of these easy swaps:
| Substitute | Flavor Profile | Use This Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Worcestershire sauce | Tangy, umami-rich | 1–2 teaspoons |
| Soy sauce + a touch of vinegar | Salty and sharp | 1 tsp soy + ½ tsp vinegar |
| A squeeze of lemon | Bright, acidic lift | ½ teaspoon |
| Skip it entirely | Still delicious, just milder | — |
Most of the time, I just use Worcestershire sauce, which is already in my pantry. It blends beautifully into the creamy sauce, especially when paired with mushrooms and sour cream.
Reader Review: “I made this with zero mustard and it was still perfect!”
“We didn’t have any Dijon mustard on hand, so I used a splash of Worcestershire and added a pinch of paprika. My husband couldn’t even tell the difference! This was one of the best versions of simple beef stroganoff I’ve made will definitely keep it in our weekly meal plan.”
Sarah J., Portland, OR
That kind of feedback never gets old. It’s also a reminder that simple beef stroganoff is meant to be flexible. Make it yours. If that means no mustard? You do you.
And if you’re experimenting with flavors, try working in ingredients from other dishes like my Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. Think bell peppers, onions, or a splash of steak sauce for something fun and new.
Can You Use Ground Beef for Stroganoff?
Is ground beef okay for simple beef stroganoff?
Yes in fact, ground beef is one of the best choices for making simple beef stroganoff. It cooks fast, is budget-friendly, and soaks up flavor like a dream. While traditional stroganoff uses thinly sliced steak, ground beef delivers the same comfort food satisfaction without the higher cost or prep time.
Using ground beef also means fewer dishes, quicker cook time, and no need to babysit the pan for doneness. That’s why so many of us busy moms swear by it.
Want proof? Just look at how beautifully it works in similar recipes like these Sloppy Joe Recipes same hearty, saucy goodness, but totally fuss-free.
Which type of ground beef is best?
When I make simple beef stroganoff with ground beef, I always reach for 85/15 ground chuck. Here’s why:
| Ground Beef Type | Fat Content | Best For Stroganoff? | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80/20 | Higher fat | Yes (drain fat) | Juicier, more flavor |
| 85/15 | Medium fat | Yes (ideal) | Balance of richness + lean |
| 90/10 | Lean | Yes (add butter/oil) | Lighter version |
Higher fat gives you better flavor, but be sure to drain the excess grease before building your sauce. You want creamy, not greasy.
If you’re in a pinch, ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives will work too, but be sure to season a little more generously. Stroganoff is all about bold, cozy flavors.
And if you’re looking for a fancy upgrade? Try combining ground beef with a few slices of seared steak or even leftover beef round steak. The combo makes your simple beef stroganoff feel like something off a restaurant menu with very little extra effort.
How Do You Cook a Steak Stroganoff?
What’s the best cut of beef for simple beef stroganoff?
If you’re going the steak route, sirloin is my top pick for making a rich, tender simple beef stroganoff. It’s lean, flavorful, and stays tender even with quick cooking. That said, you’ve got other great options depending on your budget and time.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Steak Cut | Flavor | Cook Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sirloin | Bold | Fast | Best combo of price and tenderness |
| Ribeye | Rich | Fast | Marbled, indulgent — needs slicing thin |
| Beef Tenderloin | Very tender | Fast | Luxurious, but pricey |
| Beef Round Steak | Lean | Needs time | Budget cut — try it in a slow cooker |
| Chuck Roast | Savory | Slow | Great for [slow cooker beef stroganoff] |
I personally use beef round steak when I want a melt-in-your-mouth texture and have time to let the slow cooker work its magic.
How do you cook steak for stroganoff without drying it out?
Here’s how to keep steak tender in simple beef stroganoff:
- Slice it thinly, across the grain. This shortens muscle fibers and makes each bite more tender.
- Sear quickly over high heat. Brown it in batches so it doesn’t steam.
- Remove the steak after searing. Don’t let it simmer in the sauce too long it’ll toughen up.
- Add it back at the end. Let it reheat gently in the warm sauce just before serving.
Want to stretch that steak even further? Mix in a little ground beef like we do in this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf it bulks things up while keeping that deep, beefy flavor.
Tips, Variations & A Real-Life Stroganoff Moment
How can I make simple beef stroganoff even better?
Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, there are so many ways to upgrade or customize your simple beef stroganoff without overcomplicating it.
Here are a few of my go-to tricks:
- Add cream cheese (2 tablespoons) for extra richness.
- Stir in paprika or a dash of nutmeg for warmth.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it up.
- Add frozen peas or spinach for a sneaky veggie boost.
- Use air fryer turkey breast leftovers as a lean protein twist.
How should you serve simple beef stroganoff?
The classic base is buttered egg noodles, but don’t stop there! I’ve served this stroganoff over:
- Mashed potatoes (comfort food heaven)
- Steamed white rice
- Cauliflower mash (low-carb option)
- Toasted sourdough slices for an open-faced version
And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. It brightens the whole plate.
Real Kitchen Moment: From Chaos to Calm
I’ll never forget one night last winter. We were snowed in, the power flickered, and the kids were grumpy from being cooped up. I had ground beef thawed and just enough pantry staples to pull together simple beef stroganoff. I cooked it on the gas stove by flashlight, believe it or not.
We sat down to eat by candlelight, and suddenly, everything felt cozy instead of chaotic. The kids even said it was “the best dinner ever.” Funny how food can shift the mood.
That’s the magic of simple beef stroganoff it doesn’t just feed people. It comforts them.
FAQs
What is easy beef stroganoff?
Easy beef stroganoff is a creamy, one-pan dish made with sautéed beef (usually ground or sliced), mushrooms, onions, and a sour cream-based sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for weeknights.
How long does stroganoff take to make?
Stroganoff typically takes 25–30 minutes to prepare on the stovetop. Instant Pot versions take about 20 minutes, while slow cooker recipes need 6–8 hours on low.
How do you cook ground beef stroganoff?
Brown the ground beef, sauté onions and mushrooms, add broth and seasonings, then stir in sour cream before serving over noodles or rice.
How do you cook beef stroganoff without Dijon?
Omit Dijon mustard or replace it with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce + vinegar, or lemon juice for a tangy flavor without the bite.
Can you use ground beef for stroganoff?
Yes, ground beef is a popular and affordable choice for simple beef stroganoff. It cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
How do you cook a steak stroganoff?
Thinly slice the steak across the grain, sear over high heat, then remove. Add it back to the sauce just before serving to keep it tender.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Dish
If there’s one dinner that saves me again and again, it’s simple beef stroganoff. It checks all the boxes: fast, filling, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. Whether you make it with ground beef in a skillet or go full comfort mode with a slow-cooked steak version, it just works.
And honestly? You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours to make something that tastes this good. You just need one pan, a few kitchen staples, and a little love.
From one busy mom to another keep this recipe in your back pocket. It’s a weeknight winner, a freezer-friendly friend, and pure comfort in a bowl.
