Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta

If comfort food had a name, Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta would be it. This dish combines tender strips of beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that perfectly coats every bite of penne pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking weeknight dinner or serving guests, this recipe hits all the right notes with rich flavors and satisfying textures. Ready to bring a classic twist to your pasta night? Let’s dive in!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The sour cream and beef broth create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the penne.
• Hearty and Filling: Tender beef sirloin and mushrooms make this dish substantial yet balanced.
• Perfect for Any Season: Warm and comforting during colder months but light enough for spring dinners.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

What’s in the Bowl

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The ideal shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced: Tender and flavorful, the star ingredient.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the beef to perfection.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth.
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and meaty, balancing the beef.
• 1 cup beef broth: Builds a savory base for the sauce.
• 1 cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, enriching the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: To cook the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: For browning the beef and cooking the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and scraping up the flavorful bits.
• Chef’s knife: For slicing beef and chopping vegetables.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To get the ingredients just right.

Mastering Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.

Step 2: Sear the Beef Sirloin

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until mushrooms are golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream

Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the beef to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat every piece in the rich sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta.

Adaptations for Special Diets

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to keep the dish gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative.
• Low-Carb: Swap penne pasta for zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables.
• Vegetarian: Replace beef with hearty mushrooms or a plant-based beef substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Mistakes That Ruin Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough and rubbery. Sear quickly and finish gently in the sauce.
• Skipping the Sauce Thickening: Adding sour cream directly to boiling broth can cause curdling. Lower the heat before adding sour cream.
• Undercooking the Mushrooms: Mushrooms need enough time to release moisture and brown for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente will result in mushy texture and less sauce adhesion.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta can be made ahead and frozen for convenience. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing the dish with pasta if you prefer a fresher texture; in that case, freeze the sauce and beef separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or even tenderloin. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

Worcestershire sauce adds a wonderful depth and umami to the sauce, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a similar effect. Just be mindful of the salt level.

Can I make this recipe in one pan?

Yes! You can cook the pasta separately to ensure perfect texture, then use one pan to cook the beef and build the sauce. Combining everything at the end makes cleanup easier.

What can I serve alongside this Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta?

Light sides like steamed green beans, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables complement this rich dish perfectly. For more hearty pasta inspiration, try our Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti or Garlic Butter Steak Pasta.

Similar Recipes

• Creamy Prime Rib Pasta – Another decadent beef and pasta combination that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Garlic Butter Steak Pasta – A simple yet flavorful steak pasta dish with rich garlic butter sauce.
• Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti – Creamy, cheesy, and baked to bubbly perfection.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered this Beef Stroganoff Penne Pasta, experiment with adding your own twists! Try swapping mushrooms for caramelized shallots or adding fresh thyme to the sauce. Pair your meal with a glass of your favorite red wine or a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage to elevate your dining experience. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with friends who love rich, comforting pasta dishes. Happy cooking!

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