Name: Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: 1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles; 1 pound ground beef; 1 (10.5 ounce) can fat-free condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1 tablespoon garlic powder, or to taste; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Looking for an easy, cozy weeknight dinner the whole family will love? Simple Beef Stroganoff is your answer! This classic comfort dish brings together savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, tender egg noodles, and a swirl of luscious sour cream, all ready in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re brand new to cooking or you’ve made stroganoff a hundred times, this foolproof recipe delivers rich flavor and hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss.

Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, everyday ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing a deliciously important role. It’s proof that fantastic flavor can happen with just a handful of kitchen staples. Here’s what to gather:

Egg noodles: Choose classic wide egg noodles for that perfect chewy bite and sauce-catching ability.
Ground beef: Using ground beef keeps this Simple Beef Stroganoff fast, affordable, and super satisfying.
Cream of mushroom soup: The secret to a silky, savory sauce without any extra fuss—opt for fat-free if you want a lighter touch.
Garlic powder: Adds irresistible depth and warmth, giving the dish an earthy backbone in every bite.
Sour cream: The must-have ingredient for traditional stroganoff creaminess—stir it in at the end for that tangy finish.
Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight all the rich flavors and bring the whole dish into balance.

How to Make Simple Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is thoroughly browned and crumbly—this usually takes just 5 to 10 minutes. Browning develops delicious flavor, so don’t rush it. Once it’s cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce perfectly creamy and not oily.

Step 2: Boil the Egg Noodles

While the beef cooks, fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rapid boil. Toss in the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until they’re al dente, typically about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside, ready to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

With the beef cooked and drained, stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sprinkle the garlic powder over the top. Mix everything together and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step infuses the beef with incredible mushroom and garlic flavor, and the sauce gets beautifully rich and creamy as it cooks.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Once your sauce is bubbling and fragrant, remove the skillet from the heat. Add the cooked egg noodles straight into the pan and toss to coat every noodle in that savory, creamy beef sauce. Stir in the sour cream just at the end, so it blends in smoothly without curdling. Season with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper to really make those flavors pop!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Dish out generous helpings of Simple Beef Stroganoff while everything is piping hot. It’s pure comfort in a bowl—creamy, meaty, and oh-so satisfying.

How to Serve Simple Beef Stroganoff

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley instantly brightens up the rich flavors and gives your bowl that inviting pop of color. For an extra-special touch, add a shake of smoked paprika or a few freshly ground peppercorns on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Simple Beef Stroganoff pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or buttery green beans to bring freshness to your plate. Want something heartier? Serve with warm, crusty bread to mop up every creamy drop.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to switch things up, try spooning the stroganoff over mashed potatoes or rice. You can even serve it in individual bowls or small casseroles for an elegant twist at your next dinner party. A sprinkle of fresh chives or a dollop of extra sour cream can take your presentation to the next level!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Simple Beef Stroganoff keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. The noodles might soak up some of the sauce as it sits, but the flavors become even richer the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze Simple Beef Stroganoff for up to two months. For best results, freeze the beef and sauce together (but without the noodles) in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, cook up fresh noodles—a little effort for a just-like-new meal.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stroganoff gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. If the sauce has thickened, stir in a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen it up and restore that delicious creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work well in place of beef for a leaner twist, while thinly sliced steak will give you a more traditional stroganoff experience if you’re craving something extra special.

Is it okay to use regular pasta instead of egg noodles?

Yes, you can use any pasta you have on hand—penne, fettuccine, or even rotini all work. Egg noodles are classic because of their delicate texture and ability to soak up sauce, but don’t let that stop you from getting creative.

How can I make the sauce thinner?

If you prefer a lighter, more pourable sauce, just add a splash of milk or beef broth while the sauce is simmering. Add a little at a time until it reaches your ideal consistency—so easy!

Can I make Simple Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?

Certainly! You can make the beef and sauce mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, cook and stir in fresh noodles and finish with sour cream just before serving for the best taste and texture.

What are some ways to add veggies?

Stir in sautéed mushrooms, onions, spinach, or peas just before adding the sour cream for extra color, nutrition, and flavor. It’s a simple way to make your Simple Beef Stroganoff even heartier and more vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Beef Stroganoff is proof that weeknight comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few staple ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a hearty bowl that tastes like a treat from your favorite family bistro. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding cooking can be!