Ground Beef Stroganoff With Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, this ground beef stroganoff with cream cheese is about to become a weeknight favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and full of cozy vibes—kind of like a big warm hug in a bowl. Bonus: it uses simple pantry staples, and the whole family will love it (even the picky eaters)!

Ground Beef Stroganoff With Cream Cheese

The Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this classic beef stroganoff recipe:

• 1 pound of ground beef: Adds hearty, savory flavor and protein, making this dish both filling and satisfying.
• 12 oz bowtie pasta: Acts as the perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce, holding up well without getting mushy.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Serves as the creamy foundation for the stroganoff sauce.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds richness and creates a smooth, luscious texture for the sauce.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings in a subtle tang that balances the richness and gives the dish its signature stroganoff taste.
• 1 packet brown gravy mix: Intensifies the beefy flavor and thickens the sauce just enough.
• 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of flavor while sneaking in some veggies.
• Salt & black pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors and add just the right amount of seasoning.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a layer of savory garlic flavor without needing to chop fresh cloves.
• ½ cup water (as needed for mixing): Helps dissolve and incorporate the gravy mix, making the sauce silky and smooth.
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish): Optional, but offers a fresh, herby contrast to the creamy, savory elements.

The Instructions

Let’s get cooking on this ground beef stroganoff with cream cheese!

1. Sauté the Onion & Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, start by softening your diced onion over medium heat. Once it’s translucent and fragrant, toss in the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as you go. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder—smells amazing already, right?
2. Cook the Pasta: While your beef is browning, get that pasta going. Boil a pot of salted water, cook your bowties until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Make the Stroganoff Sauce: Time to get the sauce going! Stir the cream of mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, and sour cream into your skillet with the beef. Let everything melt and mix together until you have a smooth, dreamy sauce.
4. Combine Everything: Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat it in all that saucy goodness. Then stir in the brown gravy mix and about 1/2 cup of water to help everything blend together. It’s the perfect finishing touch to make it extra savory and rich.
5. Garnish & Serve: Spoon it into bowls, top with a little chopped fresh cilantro if you’re feeling fancy, and serve it up warm for an easy weeknight dinner ideas for family.

Ground Beef Stroganoff With Cream Cheese FAQ’s

Can You Put Cream Cheese In Stroganoff?

Yes, you can absolutely put cream cheese in stroganoff—and it’s actually a game-changer! While traditional beef stroganoff recipes often rely on sour cream alone, adding cream cheese creates a richer, creamier sauce with a smooth, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the pasta or noodles. It also adds a subtle tang and depth that complements the savory beef and mushroom flavors.

What Is Traditionally Served With Beef Stroganoff?

A classic beef stroganoff recipe is traditionally served over egg noodles, which soak up the rich, creamy sauce and add a comforting texture to the dish. However, it’s also commonly paired with mashed potatoes or rice in some regions, depending on the picky eaters in your household. In this house, bowtie noodles have gone triple platinum, so we stick with those.

How Do You Add Sour Cream To Stroganoff Without Curdling?

To add sour cream to one pan beef stroganoff without curdling, the key is to lower the heat and stir it in gently at the end of the cooking process. High heat is usually what causes sour cream to separate or curdle, so make sure the dish is removed from a rolling boil or strong simmer before adding it. You can also temper the sour cream by stirring in a few spoonfuls of the hot sauce into the sour cream first, then gradually adding the mixture back into the skillet. This helps bring the temperatures closer together and creates a smoother, more stable sauce.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, looking for a cozy dinner after a long day, or just craving some creamy, carb-filled comfort food—this ground beef stroganoff with cream cheese has your back. It’s easy, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. Leftovers? Even better the next day.

Let me know if you try it!

Love this post? Here’s a simple sausage skillet recipe!