If you crave a rich, creamy comfort food that comes together fast and satisfies big appetites, this Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta is your new go-to recipe. Combining tender ground beef, velvety Velveeta cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, this dish hits that delicious spot on busy weeknights. You’ll love how the cheesy sauce clings to every bite, delivering warmth and flavor in every forkful. Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make it perfect whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super creamy comfort food: The Velveeta cheese melts into a luscious sauce that’s smooth and dreamy with every bite.
- Quick and easy prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly flavors: Mild, cheesy, and savory, it appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Flexible and customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Fills you up fast: The hearty ground beef and penne pasta combine for a satisfying, balanced meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that bring together the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a role in building a creamy sauce and hearty dish that’s bursting with warmth.
- Ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base packed with protein for fullness.
- Velveeta cheese: Adds creamy, melty cheesiness that defines the stroganoff sauce.
- Penne pasta: Its tube shape locks in sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Onion and garlic: Build aromatic depth and natural sweetness.
- Beef broth: Gives the sauce body and a beefy richness to complement the ground meat.
- Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess for that classic stroganoff taste.
- Butter: Helps sauté veggies and enriches the sauce’s texture.
- Olive oil: For lightly cooking aromatics without burning.
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika): Enhance and balance the overall flavor profile.
Variations for Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta
This dish is wonderfully versatile, and it’s easy to customize according to your pantry, dietary preferences, or the flavors you want to explore. Here are some delightfully simple ways to put your own spin on it.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version that still delivers on taste.
- Use mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to bring earthiness and texture.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Replace penne with egg noodles or fusilli: Use your favorite pasta shape for a fun twist.
- Add spices: Mix in smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs for heightened flavor complexity.
How to Make Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by boiling salted water and cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a half cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the sauce
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Then add chunks of Velveeta cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in sour cream, butter, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in the creamy Velveeta beef stroganoff sauce. Cook for another minute or two, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve warm
Transfer the velvety beef stroganoff with penne pasta to plates or bowls and garnish as desired. You’re ready to enjoy a cozy, cheesy comfort meal that everyone will ask for again!
Pro Tips for Making Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta
- Use freshly chopped onions and garlic: They provide more flavor and aroma than dried versions.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta offers a perfect bite and holds the sauce better.
- Reserve pasta water: It’s perfect for adjusting sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Melt Velveeta gently: Avoid high heat to prevent curdling or a grainy texture.
- Customize seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving to balance salt and spices perfectly.
How to Serve Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions brightens the dish visually and adds fresh herbal notes that cut through the richness. You can also add grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy touch.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside steamed green beans, crunchy salad, or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make fantastic companions to scoop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this beef stroganoff over mashed potatoes instead of pasta for a twist or serving it in a large casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and melted cheese, baked until golden and bubbly for a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinner.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save it longer. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring to maintain creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, though Velveeta melts uniquely creamy, using cheddar or a combination of cream cheese and mozzarella can work as a substitute for a slightly different but delicious texture and flavor.
Is penne the best pasta choice for this recipe?
Penne is ideal because its hollow shape holds the sauce well, but you can swap it for egg noodles, fusilli, or even rotini if you prefer.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving to keep the texture fresh and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, use low-fat sour cream, and reduce the amount of Velveeta or substitute with light cheese options to lighten the dish.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Add reserved pasta cooking water, broth, or a splash of milk to thin it out while gently reheating, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
Final Thoughts
Velveeta Beef Stroganoff with Penne Pasta is your ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying—all in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent, a home cook wanting a fuss-free dinner, or someone craving warmth and flavor, this recipe hits every mark. Give it a try tonight, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!