Rich, indulgent, and ready to wow the table, Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is your new go-to for comfort food done right. This dish blends tender ground beef with earthy mushrooms and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all wrapped in a silky Velveeta cheese sauce. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that tastes like you spent hours crafting it.

What makes this recipe a standout is the fusion of classic stroganoff flavors with the creamy, melty goodness of Velveeta cheese. The result is a hearty, one-pan pasta dinner that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or batch cooking for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and ease.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta successfully, having the right tools makes a world of difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where everything happens—from browning the beef to finishing the sauce. A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and enough room to stir without spilling.
Large Pot: For boiling the penne pasta. A roomy pot gives the pasta space to cook evenly without clumping.
Colander: Crucial for draining the pasta once it’s al dente.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping every bit of flavor off the pan as the sauce comes together.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measuring helps balance the creamy sauce, seasonings, and broth proportions.
Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: You’ll need these for slicing mushrooms and prepping aromatics like onions or garlic (if using).

These tools are kitchen staples, but each plays a key role in the recipe’s success. They ensure your textures are spot-on and flavors are layered beautifully from step one.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Ground Beef: The hearty base of this dish, providing flavor, protein, and depth.
Penne Pasta: Perfect for soaking up the cheesy, creamy sauce thanks to its tubular shape.

Velveeta Cheese: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature smooth, melty texture.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and enhances the beefy richness of the sauce.
Sour Cream: Gives the sauce a classic stroganoff tang and creamy finish.

Mushrooms: Earthy and savory, they complement the beef and add a satisfying bite.
Yellow Onion (optional): For added sweetness and aroma in the base.
Garlic (optional): Elevates the flavor with a subtle punch.

Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the dish.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Brings a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, following the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender. Stir in garlic during the last minute.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add cubes of Velveeta cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Stir in the Creaminess

Reduce heat to low and mix in sour cream. Stir until fully incorporated and the sauce is rich and velvety.

Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss to coat every piece in the cheesy beef sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy while hot and creamy.

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

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread to round out the meal.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life and stir well as it warms.

You can also freeze this meal in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when building the sauce for a little heat.

Can I substitute Velveeta with another cheese?

You can use a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a similar texture, though the smoothness might vary.

Is there a way to lighten the recipe?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to make it a bit lighter.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Does this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, just make sure to follow the cook time on the gluten-free pasta package as it may vary.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick when reheated?

Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating and stir until creamy again.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta, you’ll definitely enjoy these other satisfying recipes from Life With Olivia:

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for an easy, cheesy twist.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta packed with flavor and greens.

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for something bold and sweet.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you love creamy comfort with a savory bite.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta when you want a little kick with your pasta night.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a different pasta shape? Try it with mushrooms only or extra garlic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!

Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Velveeta Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta is a hearty, one-skillet dinner that delivers big on comfort and creamy flavor. Made with tender ground beef, savory mushrooms, smooth Velveeta cheese, and tangy sour cream, it’s an easy meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

3. Add the chopped onions and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a light simmer.

5. Add the Velveeta cubes. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream until well combined.

7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until all pasta is coated in the sauce.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated garlic for a more intense flavor, or roasted garlic for a sweet twist.

Stir constantly after adding Velveeta to prevent the cheese from sticking or burning.

To make it heartier, you can double the beef and use 16 oz of pasta.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner

Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American Comfort

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups

Calories: 620
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 880mg

Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g

Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, Velveeta recipe, beef stroganoff, easy dinner