Easy One Skillet Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: 30-Minute Dinner

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Are you searching for quick dinner ideas that don’t sacrifice flavor? This One Skillet Ground Beef Stroganoff is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner! Imagine tender egg noodles swimming in a rich, creamy sauce with perfectly seasoned ground beef and mushrooms all cooked in just one pan. This is the ultimate example of easy meals with ground beef that your whole family will request on repeat.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. Unlike traditional beef stroganoff that requires multiple pots and precise timing, this one-skillet version streamlines everything without compromising on taste. You’ll have a restaurant-quality dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, and cleanup is a breeze since everything happens in one frying pan.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff

This isn’t just another hamburger meat recipe it’s a complete game-changer for busy households. Here’s why this stroganoff stands out among other ground meat recipes for dinner:

  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
  • Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is more affordable than traditional stew meat while delivering incredible taste
  • Quick Cooking Time: Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Family Approved: Even picky eaters love the creamy, comforting flavors
  • Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
  • Versatile: Works perfectly for lazy dinners or entertaining guests

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Stroganoff

Gathering your ingredients before you start cooking makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy hamburger meat recipe:

IngredientQuantityNotes
Olive oil1 tbspFor sautéing mushrooms
White button mushrooms8 oz, slicedFresh mushrooms work best
Butter2 tbspAdds rich flavor
Onion1/2, dicedYellow or white onion
Ground beef1 lb80/20 blend recommended
Garlic powder2 tspOr 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
All-purpose flour3 tbspFor thickening the sauce
Paprika1 tspAdds color and mild spice
Dry sherry1/4 cupOr substitute beef broth
Low sodium beef broth4 cupsUse quality broth for best results
Salt1 1/2 tspAdjust to taste
Black pepper1/2 tspFreshly ground preferred
Dry egg noodles4 cupsWide egg noodles traditional
Sour cream1/2 cupFull-fat for best creaminess
Fresh parsley1-2 tbsp, choppedFor garnish and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions for One Skillet Success

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect ground beef stroganoff. Using a quality large skillet with a lid is essential for this recipe. Keep your kitchen utensils handy for easy stirring and serving.

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to your large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re tender and golden brown. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your stroganoff. Once done, transfer the mushrooms to a plate and set aside. Use a quality cutting board and chef’s knife for perfectly sliced mushrooms.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Return the skillet to the stovetop and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and garlic powder. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the beef is completely browned and cooked through about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and return the skillet to the heat.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of paprika over the cooked beef. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and the flour is fully incorporated. This creates a roux that will thicken your stroganoff sauce beautifully. Having measuring cups and spoons makes this step precise.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build Flavor

Pour 1/4 cup of dry sherry into the pan (or use beef broth if you prefer). Stir vigorously, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan these add incredible depth of flavor. Continue cooking until the sherry has mostly evaporated, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Broth and Noodles

Gradually stir in 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth along with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then add 4 cups of dry egg noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until the noodles are perfectly tender. A mixing bowl nearby helps with ingredient prep.

Step 6: Finish with Creamy Perfection

Once the noodles are cooked, return the sautéed mushrooms to the skillet and stir to combine. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1 to 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. The residual heat will warm the sour cream without curdling it. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy this comforting dinner!

Pro Tips for the Best Stroganoff Every Time

Want to elevate this already amazing recipe? Here are expert tips to ensure perfect results:

  • Don’t skip the mushroom sauté: Cooking mushrooms first in olive oil removes excess moisture and concentrates their umami flavor
  • Use room temperature sour cream: This prevents curdling when you add it at the end
  • Quality beef broth matters: Low-sodium allows you to control salt levels and adds richer flavor than bouillon cubes
  • Stir frequently during noodle cooking: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking
  • Let it rest for 2 minutes: After cooking, let the stroganoff sit covered for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly
  • Fresh parsley is key: Don’t substitute dried fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh note that balances the richness

Variations and Substitutions

This versatile recipe adapts easily to different preferences and dietary needs. Here are some popular variations:

Protein Swaps

While this is one of the best hamburger meat recipes, you can substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter version. Ground chicken recipes work particularly well with this preparation method.

Mushroom Options

Cremini, baby bella, or even shiitake mushrooms can replace button mushrooms for a more sophisticated flavor profile.

Pasta Alternatives

Try rotini, penne, or even rice noodles instead of egg noodles. Adjust cooking time as needed based on pasta type.

Dairy-Free Version

Replace sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free adaptation.

Serving Suggestions

This one skillet ground beef stroganoff shines as a complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious serving ideas:

  • Crusty French bread for soaking up the creamy sauce
  • Simple green salad with vinaigrette for brightness
  • Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
  • Garlic bread for extra indulgence
  • A glass of dry red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot

Storage and Reheating Tips

This recipe makes excellent leftovers! Store any remaining stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency, as the noodles absorb liquid as they sit. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Why This Beats Traditional Stroganoff

Traditional beef stroganoff calls for expensive stew meat that requires lengthy cooking times to become tender. This ground beef version delivers all the classic flavors in a fraction of the time and cost. The ground beef cooks quickly and absorbs the seasonings beautifully, while the one-pan method means the noodles cook directly in the flavorful sauce, creating incredible depth of flavor.

For busy families looking for healthy dinner recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen, this is the perfect solution. It’s hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites but light enough that you won’t feel weighed down.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the beef mixture through step 4, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring it back to a simmer, add the noodles, and proceed with the recipe. This makes it one of the most practical dinner ideas with ground beef for meal prep.

What’s the best ground beef to use?

An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) provides the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can result in a drier texture, while fattier blends may require more draining.

Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff?

Yes, but noodles can become mushy when frozen and reheated. For best results, freeze the sauce and beef mixture without the noodles, then cook fresh noodles when reheating.

Is there a substitute for dry sherry?

Absolutely! Use additional beef broth, dry white wine, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce mixed with broth for similar depth of flavor.

How can I make it thicker?

If your stroganoff is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in, simmering for 2 more minutes. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, full-fat plain Greek yogurt works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly tangier. Make sure it’s at room temperature before adding.

Nutritional Benefits

This stroganoff provides a balanced meal with protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and vegetables from the mushrooms and onions. Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins and selenium, while the beef provides iron and zinc. Using low-sodium broth helps control salt intake, making this a relatively healthy dinner recipe option.

Equipment List

To make this recipe successfully, you’ll need the following kitchen essentials:

Final Thoughts

This One Skillet Ground Beef Stroganoff represents everything great about quick dinner ideas: it’s fast, affordable, delicious, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a college student cooking for one, a busy parent feeding a family, or someone who simply loves easy meals with ground beef, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s forgiving enough for beginner cooks yet impressive enough to serve to guests. As one of the best ground meat recipes for dinner, it proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Next time you’re scrolling through lazy dinners wondering what to make, remember this stroganoff. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a steaming skillet of creamy, savory perfection that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!

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Easy One Skillet Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: 30-Minute Dinner

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This One Skillet Ground Beef Stroganoff is a quick, creamy, and comforting dinner made with tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes with easy cleanup!

  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

8 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced

2 tbsp butter

1/2 onion, diced

1 lb. ground beef

2 tsp garlic powder

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp paprika

1/4 cup dry sherry, or beef broth

4 cups low sodium beef broth

1 1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

4 cups dry egg noodles

1/2 cup sour cream

1 to 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Add the olive oil to a large skillet (that has a lid) and sauté the mushrooms over medium heat, until tender, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from skillet to a plate.

2. Return the skillet to the stove top and melt the butter. Add the ground beef, onion and garlic powder and cook until ground beef is broken up and cooked through. Drain any fat and return skillet to stove top.

3. Stir in the flour and paprika until thick, about 1 to 2 minutes. Splash the dry sherry into the pan and stir, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, cooking until dry sherry is evaporated.

4. Gradually stir in the beef broth, salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil and add the egg noodles. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Stir often until noodles are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Return the mushrooms to the skillet and stir to combine.

5. Stir in the sour cream and freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use room temperature sour cream to prevent curdling.

Stir noodles frequently during cooking to prevent sticking.

This dish thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth when reheating leftovers.

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

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