Cheesy Beef Stroganoff Penne in Velveeta Sauce

When you think of comfort food, beef stroganoff and cheesy pasta are probably two dishes that come to mind. This Cheesy Beef Stroganoff Penne in Velveeta Sauce takes the best of both worlds and fuses them into one rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying meal. The penne pasta is the perfect vehicle for holding onto that luscious, creamy Velveeta sauce, while the tender ground beef, mushrooms, and onions add savory depth. This is the kind of dinner that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and makes everyone come back for seconds. It’s weeknight-friendly but impressive enough to serve to guests who appreciate a good, hearty pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 cup milk

  • 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed

  • 2 tablespoons sour cream

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.

  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

  5. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.

  6. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

  7. Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine.

  8. Add Worcestershire sauce and paprika, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

  9. Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce while stirring occasionally.

  10. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, reduce the heat to low and mix in the sour cream.

  11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  12. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the cheesy stroganoff sauce.

  13. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~480 kcal

  • Protein: ~23 g

  • Fat: ~22 g

  • Saturated Fat: ~11 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~46 g

  • Fiber: ~2 g

  • Sugars: ~6 g

  • Sodium: ~850 mg

  • Cholesterol: ~65 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of pasta, beef, and cheese, and this dish delivers that in spades. The Velveeta gives the sauce a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that clings perfectly to each piece of penne, while the beef and mushrooms provide hearty, meaty satisfaction. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to get something that tastes like it came from a cozy, family-run bistro. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers the next day.

Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Beef stroganoff has its roots in 19th-century Russia, traditionally made with sautéed beef, onions, and sour cream. Over the years, it spread across the globe, with each region putting its own spin on it. In the U.S., the dish often appears in weeknight dinner rotations, sometimes served over egg noodles or rice. This particular recipe takes inspiration from that classic stroganoff base but swaps the egg noodles for penne pasta and the traditional sauce for a rich Velveeta cheese sauce. The result is a modern fusion that keeps the spirit of the original but adds an irresistible cheesy twist that pasta lovers will adore.

Ingredient Spotlight

Velveeta Cheese – Known for its ultra-smooth melt, Velveeta ensures the sauce is creamy without clumping.
Ground Beef – A staple in comfort cooking, it adds richness and protein. Opt for lean beef to keep it lighter.
Mushrooms – Their earthy flavor complements the beef and adds texture.
Penne Pasta – The ridges and hollow shape make it perfect for catching sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth that balances the creaminess.
Sour Cream – A nod to traditional stroganoff, adding tanginess and creaminess at the end.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, the stovetop is best — add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm over low heat until hot. The microwave works too, but heat in short intervals and stir in between to prevent the cheese sauce from breaking. This dish can be frozen, but note that the texture of the sauce may change slightly; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Common Variations to Try

  • Protein Swap – Try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage instead of beef.

  • Veggie Boost – Add spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.

  • Cheese Twist – Mix Velveeta with sharp cheddar or pepper jack for more complexity.

  • Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

  • Low-Carb Version – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets instead of pasta.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish is rich and creamy, so it pairs beautifully with a crisp, fresh side. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the heaviness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette is great for mopping up sauce. For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the beefy richness, while an ice-cold lager offers a refreshing contrast.

Health Benefits

While this dish leans indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. The beef provides a good dose of protein and iron, mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants, and the milk and cheese bring calcium for strong bones. If you opt for whole-grain pasta, you can increase fiber content, making it more filling. Using lean beef and moderate cheese also helps keep the fat content in check without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Stroganoff Penne in Velveeta Sauce is the kind of recipe that earns a spot in your regular meal rotation. It’s comforting, flavorful, and hearty, but also quick enough for busy weeknights. The creamy Velveeta sauce brings a nostalgic cheesiness that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and earthy mushrooms. Serve it to your family, and watch it disappear from the table faster than you can say “stroganoff.” This is pasta night taken to the next level — and once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

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