Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy, tender beef with perfectly cooked pasta, this Easy Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with rich flavors and a smooth sauce that clings to every bite of penne, it’s a comforting weeknight dinner that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises warmth, simplicity, and a perfect balance of textures you’ll come back to time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: A luscious mixture that coats the penne pasta beautifully, making each bite indulgent.
• Versatile Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples that come together for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
• Perfect Comfort Food: Hearty beef with mushrooms and tangy sour cream delivers that cozy feeling you want after a long day.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by both adults and children for its mild but comforting taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, from tender beef strips to fresh mushrooms and creamy sour cream for that signature smooth finish.

• Beef strips: Use lean sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Penne pasta: Its ridges hold the sauce well, giving you every tasty bite coated in creaminess.
• Mushrooms: Fresh white or cremini mushrooms add earthy depth and texture.
• Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that build the flavor foundation with sweetness and warmth.
• Beef broth: Adds savory richness to the sauce and keeps the meat juicy.
• Sour cream: Provides the creamy tang that defines stroganoff and balances the rich beef.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce to that perfect velvety consistency.
• Olive oil and butter: For sautéing and adding layers of flavor and smoothness.
• Salt, pepper, and paprika: Classic seasonings that enhance the dish’s comforting profile.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of color and freshness at the end.

Variations for Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Don’t hesitate to tailor this Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Its simple base makes swapping ingredients easy without losing any of the evening’s magic.

• Use chicken or turkey: Substitute beef for lighter poultry options to change up the protein while maintaining the creamy sauce.
• Gluten-free pasta: Swap penne with your favorite gluten-free version for an allergy-friendly meal.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms or tofu for a meatless option just as satisfying.
• Low-fat twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy and lighter alternative.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the creamy classic.

How to Make Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to help adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef strips and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Cook quickly until browned but still tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Cook Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter and sauté diced onions until translucent. Toss in sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until they release their juices and soften, about 5 minutes. This step creates a rich base for the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the softened mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly for a minute or so to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken to a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Reduce heat to low, stir in the sour cream until smooth, and return the cooked beef strips to the skillet. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Pro Tips for Making Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

• Slice beef thinly: This ensures quick cooking and tender results—freeze beef for 20 minutes beforehand to slice easier.
• Don’t overcook beef: Removing it from the pan as soon as it browns keeps it juicy and prevents toughness.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding a bit of that starchy water helps smooth out and loosen the sauce perfectly.
• Use full-fat sour cream: It yields the creamiest, richest stroganoff sauce with authentic flavor.
• Fresh mushrooms over canned: They provide better texture and earthy flavor, elevating the dish.

How to Serve Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a vibrant touch of color and mild herbal brightness that complements the rich stroganoff sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Simple steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli make great side dishes that balance the creamy pasta. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also brightens the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta in shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce, then drizzle a little extra sour cream on top with a sprinkle of paprika for a restaurant-style look. Pairing it with crusty garlic bread makes the experience even more deliciously cozy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover stroganoff in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish holds well, allowing the flavors to meld even more overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the beef stroganoff and penne pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw fully in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating works, but stirring occasionally helps avoid uneven heat.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?

Absolutely! Rigatoni, fusilli, or egg noodles work wonderfully and will hold the stroganoff sauce just as well.

Is sour cream necessary for the sauce?

Sour cream gives the sauce its signature tang and creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative that can be used without sacrificing too much flavor.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap regular penne pasta with a gluten-free variety and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and veggies in advance and cook the pasta fresh when ready. The entire stroganoff can also be made a day ahead and gently reheated.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Lean cuts like sirloin or flank steak are ideal because they cook quickly and stay tender without becoming chewy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Beef Stroganoff and Penne Pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and elegance to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s packed with creamy, dreamy flavors and simple ingredients you can keep on hand. Next time you want a satisfying meal that feels special without a lot of fuss, this dish will be your go-to favorite. Give it a try and watch how easily it becomes a beloved classic in your home!

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