Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

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When comfort food is calling, few dishes hit the spot quite like Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta. This hearty recipe combines the creamy meltiness of Velveeta cheese with savory ground beef and perfectly cooked penne pasta for a one-pan meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to whip up. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a long day when only rich, warm food will do, this dish wraps you in a blanket of creamy indulgence.

The beauty of this meal lies in its simplicity. It’s a weeknight hero, made with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. The Velveeta creates a silky cheese sauce that hugs each piece of pasta, while the beef adds robust depth. It’s a nostalgic nod to classic beef stroganoff but with a creamy, cheesy twist that makes it an instant favorite with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

This recipe is the perfect blend of creamy and savory. It brings together the speed of a skillet dinner with the flavor depth of something that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly and comforting that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this one delivers every time.

It’s also wonderfully adaptable. You can swap in ground turkey, use different pasta shapes, or even sneak in some finely chopped veggies for extra nutrition. But even in its simplest form, it’s the kind of dish that leaves plates clean and stomachs happy.

Can I Use Another Kind of Pasta Instead of Penne?

Absolutely! Penne holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully, but you can use whatever pasta you have on hand. Rotini, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni all work great. Just aim for a shape that catches the sauce well, especially if you’re planning to serve it reheated the next day. Short pastas are best because they mix easily with the beef and sauce for that forkful of perfect flavor.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

This dish keeps it simple with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, which makes it perfect for busy nights. Each component plays an important role in building flavor and texture, making the final result creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying.

• Ground beef
• Penne pasta
• Velveeta cheese
• Beef broth
• Onion
• Garlic
• Butter
• Sour cream
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper

Ground beef gives the dish a hearty, meaty foundation. Penne pasta holds the sauce well and adds a satisfying chew. Velveeta cheese is the star of the show, creating a creamy and smooth texture that clings to every bite. Beef broth enhances the savory base, while onion and garlic build aromatic depth. A bit of butter adds richness, and sour cream brings the classic tang of stroganoff. A dash of Worcestershire sauce ties all the flavors together, and salt and pepper round it out just right.

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, then remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and add the Velveeta cheese, cubed for easier melting. Stir until it forms a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Sour Cream

Cook the penne pasta separately according to package directions, then drain and add it to the skillet. Stir in the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and browned beef. Combine everything until well mixed and heated through.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

This dish is best served fresh from the skillet when the cheese sauce is at its peak creaminess. It makes a complete meal on its own, thanks to the protein-packed beef and the hearty pasta. Serve it in wide bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few grinds of black pepper on top if you want to elevate the presentation just a touch.

This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, but you can easily double it for a larger family or to have leftovers on hand. When storing, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to revive the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The buttery crunch of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, making it perfect for dipping.

Roasted Asparagus

A side of roasted asparagus adds a bright, fresh contrast that balances out the richness of the dish.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that complements the savory beef.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple, crisp green beans tossed with a touch of lemon butter bring color and crunch to your plate.

Creamed Spinach

For those who love ultra-comforting meals, creamed spinach keeps the cozy vibes going with its velvety texture.

Cucumber Dill Salad

This cool and tangy salad refreshes the palate between creamy bites.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re feeding a crowd or craving extra carbs, crispy roasted potatoes with parmesan offer that satisfying, golden crunch.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re into the creamy, savory comfort that comes from dishes like this Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta, here are more pasta-centric recipes you’ll want to try next:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a cozy vegetarian option that’s rich and bright.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you love hearty flavors with minimal cleanup.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for something with a kick and luscious texture.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta for a garlic- and sun-dried tomato-packed favorite.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re craving a meatless indulgence that’s just as satisfying.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ground beef or try it with turkey? Add any veggies to make it your own? I’d love to hear what twists you bring to your skillet.

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Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is that rare kind of recipe that manages to be both comforting and convenient. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving leftovers for the week, it’s dependable, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. You’ll come back to it again and again for its ease and its rich, cheesy depth that warms you from the inside out.

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