Name: Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 12 ounces penne pasta; 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup beef broth; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of tender ground beef with a smooth and creamy Velveeta sauce, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. Ideal for those hectic weeknights, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty dinner that makes dinner time enjoyable for the whole family.

This recipe shines for its simplicity and bold flavors. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta, offering a delightful mouthfeel that is comfort food at its finest. With ingredients that are easy to find and preparation that requires minimal effort, this beef stroganoff is your go-to solution for busy days. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect candidate for lunch the next day.

Imagine sitting down to a hot plate of this indulgent dish after a long day. The cheeses melt into a luxurious sauce, while the ground beef adds the perfect protein punch. Not only is it filling, but it also caters to a variety of taste preferences, making it a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on making this Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta!

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

Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich and Creamy: Velveeta cheese offers a smooth sauce that coats every bite.
Kid-Friendly: A satisfying dish that appeals to all ages.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
Flexible Ingredients: Easily customizable with different proteins or veggies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure your kitchen is ready for an efficient cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients, which makes the cooking process much smoother. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a large skillet for preparing the beef and sauce. Use a colander to drain the pasta and an assortment of measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements.

Having everything laid out and prepped (like dicing your onion and mincing your garlic) will save time and ensure a seamless cooking experience. Remember to keep your saute pan on medium heat to perfectly cook the onions and garlic before adding the beef. Once you have your workspace organized, you’re ready to create this comforting dish!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
12 ounces penne pasta
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup sour cream
1 cup beef broth
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook it until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and make sure to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. This water is essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on, ensuring it’s not too thick.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat either olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once heated, add the diced onion and sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for the beef stroganoff.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. As it cooks, break the beef apart using a wooden spoon or spatula. Allow it to cook until it’s no longer pink, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet; this keeps the dish from becoming too greasy. Season the meat with salt and black pepper for added flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth, bringing it to a light simmer. This not only adds moisture to the dish but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Create the Velveeta Sauce

Next, add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and blends into a smooth sauce. This is where the creaminess begins to develop, making your dish indulgent and delicious.

Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream

Once the cheese is melted, reduce the heat to low and mix in the sour cream. Stir well until combined, creating a rich, creamy sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Finally, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat each piece in the creamy sauce. Ensure every bite of pasta is enveloped in that cheesy goodness. Once combined, your dish is ready!

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter dish.
Vegetables: Add in steamed broccoli, sliced mushrooms, or peas to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Incorporate paprika, Worcestershire sauce, or Italian seasoning for a new twist on flavor.

Cooking Notes

For a healthier option, choose lean ground beef or a higher proportion of vegetables in the dish.
If you occasionally find your sauce too thick, remember to use more reserved pasta water to adjust consistency easily.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with a side salad or crusty garlic bread for the perfect meal pairing.

Tips

Prep all ingredients before starting to cook to make the process smoother and less stressful.
Don’t skip on simmering the beef broth with the beef as it enhances depth of flavor.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 25 grams
Sodium: 750 mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to add pasta.

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the beef stroganoff. Just store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to eat, adding a splash of beef broth or water as needed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Other creamy cheeses like cream cheese or cheddar can work, but they will change the flavor profile slightly.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serving it with a side salad or garlic bread complements the richness of the stroganoff perfectly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is sure to become a staple in your home. Its quick preparation time, rich flavors, and comforting qualities make it ideal for busy weeknights or any time you crave something hearty. With just a few minutes in the kitchen, you’ll create a dish that brings smiles all around the table, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

So why not give it a try? Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. We’d love to hear how your version turns out! Share your thoughts, suggestions, or modifications in the comments below. Happy cooking!