One Pan Ground Beef: Amazing 30-Min Dinner

One pan ground beef stroganoff is a true weeknight hero in my kitchen. I remember those frantic evenings when dinner felt impossible, but discovering this method changed everything. The aroma of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy sour cream simmering together fills my home, promising a comforting and delicious meal without the mountain of dishes. Seriously, it’s one of those easy ground beef skillet meals that feels like a hug in a bowl. This simple ground beef one pan dinner is proof that incredible flavor doesn’t require hours of work. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Ground Beef

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and anyone who dreads doing dishes. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a stress-free solution that delivers incredible flavor and satisfaction.

• Unbeatable Flavor: Rich, creamy, and deeply savory, this stroganoff hits all the right notes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you precious time and effort.
• Speedy Preparation: It’s one of those quick one pan ground beef recipes that gets dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients like ground beef and pantry staples.
• Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting classic.
• Healthy-ish Option: Packed with protein from the beef and veggies, it’s a satisfying and relatively wholesome choice.
• Versatile Meal: Easily adaptable, making it one of the most flexible quick one pan ground beef recipes you’ll find.

Ingredients for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious ground beef and vegetable one pan wonder. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – for sautéing and richness
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – helps prevent sticking
• 2 cups mushrooms, thinly sliced – adds earthy flavor and texture
• 2 tsp salt, divided – essential for bringing out flavors
• 1 cup onion, diced – provides a sweet aromatic base
• 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend recommended) – the star of our dish, a good fat ratio ensures tenderness
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – for a little zing
• 2 pinches cayenne pepper (optional) – for a subtle hint of heat
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds pungent depth
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens our sauce
• 4 tbsp vodka (optional, or substitute ¼ cup dry white wine or extra broth) – deglazes the pan and adds complexity
• 5 cups beef broth – the savory liquid base
• 2 cups water – to help cook the noodles and adjust consistency
• 5 cups uncooked wide egg noodles – the classic pasta pairing
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature) – for that signature creamy tang; room temp prevents curdling
• 4 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, chopped – for a fresh, bright garnish

How to Make One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

This recipe makes cooking incredibly easy, proving you don’t need multiple pans for a delicious meal. Follow these steps to create a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

1. Step 1: Sear the Mushrooms. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter and 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 2 cups mushrooms, thinly sliced, and 1 tsp salt. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for them to become golden brown and tender, releasing their earthy aroma.
2. Step 2: Build the Flavor Base. Add 1 cup diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, until it softens and becomes translucent. Now, add 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend recommended). Break it up with your spoon and season with the remaining 1 tsp salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, draining any excess fat if necessary. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant. This is how you make a flavorful base for your one pan ground beef dish.

3. Step 3: Make the Roux & Deglaze. Sprinkle 3 tbsp all-purpose flour evenly over the beef mixture. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste and thickening our sauce. Then, pour in the 4 tbsp vodka (or your chosen substitute) to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. Step 4: Simmer Everything Together. Gradually add the 5 cups beef broth and 2 cups water, stirring continuously to combine everything smoothly. Add the 5 cups uncooked wide egg noodles, stirring to make sure they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. The noodles should become tender, and the sauce will thicken beautifully. If it gets too thick too quickly, just add a splash more broth or water. This is a key part of how to make one pan ground beef taste amazing.

5. Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for just a minute. This helps prevent the sour cream from curdling. Stir in 1 cup sour cream (room temperature) until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Step 6: Garnish & Serve. Spoon the delicious one pan ground beef stroganoff into bowls. Top with extra dollops of sour cream and a generous sprinkle of fresh 4 tbsp chives or green onions, chopped. For an extra crunch, you can add crispy fried onions.

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Ground Beef

Elevating this already amazing dish is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips will help ensure your one-pan meal is the absolute best, making it one of your go-to ground beef skillet recipes for dinner.

• Don’t skip searing the mushrooms; they develop a deep, savory flavor that’s essential to stroganoff.
• Ensure your sour cream is at room temperature before adding it. This prevents it from curdling in the hot sauce, keeping your stroganoff smooth and luscious.
• Taste and adjust seasonings at the very end. Broth and sour cream can alter the saltiness, so a final check guarantees perfect flavor.
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider using a mix of beef and mushroom broth.

What’s the secret to perfect one pan ground beef stroganoff?

The magic lies in building layers of flavor: properly searing the mushrooms, deglazing the pan with vodka or wine, and finishing with room-temperature sour cream off the heat. This technique ensures the creamiest texture and richest taste, making it one of the best one pan ground beef meals.

Can I make one pan ground beef stroganoff ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish completely up to the point of adding the sour cream. Cool it, cover, and refrigerate. This is perfect for ground beef meal prep one pan. Reheat gently on the stovetop, add a little extra broth if needed to loosen, then stir in the sour cream off the heat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with one pan ground beef stroganoff?

A common pitfall is curdled sour cream; always use room temperature sour cream and stir it in off the heat. Also, avoid overcooking the noodles, as they can become mushy. Stir them frequently during the simmering stage.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

This versatile one pan ground beef stroganoff is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. It’s a complete meal that satisfies, making it one of my favorite ground beef skillet recipes for dinner.

• Serve it as is: Honestly, this dish is so hearty and flavorful, it doesn’t need much else. The tender egg noodles and creamy sauce are incredibly satisfying on their own.
• With a simple green salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the rich stroganoff. It adds a refreshing element that balances the meal beautifully.
• Alongside crusty bread: For soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce, a slice or two of warm, crusty bread is unbeatable. Garlic bread is also a fantastic option!

Nutrition Facts for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

This one pan ground beef stroganoff is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe yielding 8 servings.

• Calories: 510
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: 620mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

This flavorful one pan ground beef stroganoff is fantastic for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. Storing and reheating it properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime, proving it’s one of the best one-dish ground beef meals around.

Once cooked, allow the stroganoff to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Ensure the containers are freezer-safe.

To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Gently warm the stroganoff in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Can I make this one pan ground beef recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of this one pan ground beef stroganoff, simply omit the ground beef. You can boost the vegetable component by adding more mushrooms, or even incorporating other veggies like peas or spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully meat-free dish. It’s a great way to adapt this recipe for different dietary needs.

What are some good sides for one pan ground beef stroganoff?

While this dish is practically a meal in itself, it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Crusty bread, like a baguette or garlic bread, is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich sauce. If you’re looking for more substantial ground beef dinner ideas one pan can complement, consider serving it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple side of mashed potatoes.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

The key to a super creamy sauce is using room-temperature sour cream and stirring it in *after* removing the pan from the heat. This prevents the sour cream from curdling. For an even richer texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream. Ensure your noodles are cooked to tender perfection, as they also contribute to the sauce’s thickness.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can! While wide egg noodles are traditional and work beautifully, feel free to experiment. Other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even bow-tie pasta will work. Just ensure you cook them according to the package directions, adding them to the skillet and simmering until al dente. Adjust the liquid if needed, as different pasta types can absorb varying amounts.

Variations of One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff You Can Try

This one pan ground beef stroganoff is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Healthy One Pan Ground Beef Version: Swap the 85/15 ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. For a lighter sauce, use plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream instead of full-fat sour cream. You can also load it up with extra veggies like spinach, kale, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of simmering.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. For the noodles, choose your favorite gluten-free pasta shape. This makes for a fantastic healthy one pan ground beef option that everyone can enjoy.
• Mushroom Lover’s Dream: Double the mushrooms! Use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and even some dried porcini mushrooms rehydrated in warm water (use the soaking liquid in the broth for extra depth). This intensifies the earthy, umami flavors.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. You could also finish with a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of hot sauce for an extra fiery twist.

One Pan Ground Beef: Amazing 30-Min Dinner

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This One-Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe offers a quick, creamy, and comforting twist on a classic. It combines savory ground beef, tender mushrooms, and egg noodles in a rich, tangy sauce, all cooked in a single skillet for minimal cleanup. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp salt, divided
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend recommended)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 pinches cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp vodka (optional, or substitute ¼ cup dry white wine or extra broth)
• 5 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 5 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 4 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Sear the Mushrooms: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and 1 tsp salt. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender.
2. Build the Flavor Base: Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes, until soft. Stir in ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with remaining salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux & Deglaze: Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Pour in the vodka (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Simmer Everything Together: Gradually add the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Add uncooked egg noodles and stir to submerge them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and sauce is thickened. (If sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of extra broth.)
5. Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for 1 minute. Stir in sour cream until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish & Serve: Spoon into bowls, top with extra sour cream, and sprinkle with fresh chives or green onions. Optional: add crispy onions for crunch.

Notes

• For a lighter version, swap ground beef for lean ground turkey and use low-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.
• For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes or make a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) and stir it in.
• To make ahead, prepare up to adding sour cream, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove, add broth/water to loosen, then stir in sour cream off the heat.
• If sour cream curdles, try whisking in more cold sour cream off the heat. The texture may be slightly grainy, but the flavor will still be good.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: N/A

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