Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender pasta, rich beef, and a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to master this dish, including prep and cooking times, ingredients, directions, tips, benefits, FAQs, and more. Let’s dive into the details to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients
To make this creamy delight, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta
1️⃣ Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Boil a pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Tips:
- Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
- Do not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
2️⃣ Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
Tips:
- Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
3️⃣ Add Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 3–5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step infuses the beef with rich flavor.
4️⃣ Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the following ingredients:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Cubed Velveeta cheese
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Continue stirring until the Velveeta cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Tips:
- Adjust seasoning after the cheese has melted to avoid over-salting.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or additional beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta until it is evenly coated in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips:
- Ensure the heat is low when adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
- For an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving.
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, creamy dish with your loved ones.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the overall flavor.
- Pasta Water Hack: Adding reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Vegetable Additions: For a more wholesome dish, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
- Versatile: You can customize it by adding vegetables or using whole-grain pasta.
- Comfort Food: It’s a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
FAQs About Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta
Q1. Can I substitute Velveeta cheese?
Yes, you can use shredded cheddar or a cheese blend as a substitute. However, Velveeta provides the best creamy texture.
Q2. How do I make this dish healthier?
Use lean ground beef, low-sodium soup, and whole-grain pasta. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
Q3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Follow the tips and variations shared in this guide to make it your own. Enjoy the journey of creating this hearty meal, and relish every bite of this ultimate comfort food.
