
This filling hamburger stroganoff changes the classic beef meal into a speedy dinner for the whole family that keeps the rich flavor but saves you time. You'll enjoy that wonderful mix of flavorful ground beef, yummy mushrooms, and creamy sauce in just 30 minutes. It seems fancy but takes very little effort.
I made this hamburger stroganoff during a crazy busy night when I needed something hot and satisfying but couldn't spend forever in the kitchen. It turned out so good it's now a staple in our weekly lineup. My family loves how the velvety sauce clings to every bite of pasta.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: pick 93% or 90% lean for great taste without excess grease
- Smoked paprika: adds incredible richness and a touch of smoky flavor that lifts the whole dish
- Dried thyme: gives an earthy note that pairs perfectly with beef
- Garlic powder and onion powder: pack tons of flavor without any knife work
- Cremini mushrooms: deliver a hearty texture and deep flavor essential for stroganoff
- Greek yogurt: brings creaminess plus extra protein and fewer calories than traditional sour cream
- Egg noodles: the traditional pairing for this dish - go for whole wheat if you want more fiber
- Beef broth: forms the flavorful foundation of your sauce - try to get low-sodium if possible
- Worcestershire sauce: adds major flavor punch with its complex fermented taste
- Dijon mustard: optional but worth adding for a nice zing that cuts through the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep First:
- Take your Greek yogurt out of the fridge to warm up slightly - this prevents it from separating when added to hot sauce. Slice your mushrooms and measure everything else before you start cooking.
- Season And Brown The Beef:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer. Add ground beef and all seasonings together. Break up the meat while it cooks until no pink remains, around 6-8 minutes. Don't stir constantly - letting it brown creates tastier results.
- Cook The Mushrooms:
- Lower heat to medium and add your sliced mushrooms to the beef. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they shrink and brown a bit. This step brings out their natural umami flavor.
- Cook Your Noodles:
- While mushrooms are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions until tender, usually 5-7 minutes. Drain but don't rinse so the sauce will stick better.
- Create The Base Sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over your beef and mushrooms and stir until completely mixed in. Pour in about a third of the beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pan to grab all those tasty bits. Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and pour in the remaining broth.
- Reduce And Thicken:
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring now and then as it gets thicker. The flour will gradually work to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Add The Yogurt:
- Remove pan from heat and let cool slightly for about a minute. Gradually stir in your room-temperature Greek yogurt until fully blended. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire if needed.

You Must Know
The smoked paprika really makes this dish special. I found this out by chance when I ran out of regular paprika one evening. Everyone at dinner immediately noticed and wondered what made it taste so much better. Now I always stock smoked paprika specifically for this stroganoff.
Make Ahead Options
This hamburger stroganoff actually gets tastier after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together. To prep ahead, make everything but don't add the yogurt yet. Let it cool down completely and store in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm it gently on the stove until just heated through but not bubbling, then stir in room-temperature yogurt. This keeps your sauce silky and prevents curdling.
Smart Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version - just know they'll cook a bit quicker. Can't have dairy? Try unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream to replace the yogurt. Not a fan of mushrooms? Toss in chopped zucchini or bell peppers instead, though the flavor profile will change somewhat. For those avoiding gluten, swap cornstarch for flour as your thickener and serve over gluten-free pasta or riced cauliflower.
Serving Suggestions
While egg noodles are traditional, this stroganoff tastes wonderful over many bases. Try it with fluffy rice, riced cauliflower, or even creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, pair it with a basic green salad or some lightly cooked broccoli or green beans to balance the rich sauce.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your sauce looks too thin, just simmer it a little longer to reduce and thicken. Too thick? Add a splash more beef broth or a bit of water until you reach your preferred consistency.

Common Questions
- → Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes! Go ahead with full-fat sour cream for the same rich, creamy results.
- → Which noodles go best with this dish?
Traditional egg noodles work great, but don't worry if you've got something else on hand.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Make sure your dairy's not cold from the fridge and mix it in after taking the pan off the heat.
- → Is there a way to make this meatless?
For sure! Double up on mushrooms or throw in some meat substitute for a tasty veggie version.
- → What's the best way to save leftovers?
Pop them in an airtight container and stick them in your fridge for up to 3 days. Don't try freezing though—your mushrooms won't thank you for it.