Description
This Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta recipe offers the ultimate comfort food experience with its rich and velvety cheese sauce that perfectly coats tender penne pasta. Made with simple ingredients like Velveeta cheese, butter, and a touch of aromatic spices, it’s a quick and satisfying meal ideal for cozy dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Melt the butter and warm the milk: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter completely. Once melted, pour in 1 cup of milk and stir continuously for 3-5 minutes, ensuring the mixture does not boil.
- Add and melt the Velveeta cheese: Add 2 cups of cubed Velveeta cheese to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and forms a smooth, creamy sauce, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the cheese sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the cheese sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pan from heat. Optionally sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley over the dish for color and freshness. Serve immediately, pairing with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute penne pasta with rigatoni or any other sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well.
- Whole milk is preferred for a creamier sauce, but almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Margarine can replace butter for a dairy-free option without sacrificing richness.
- Fresh minced garlic or sautéed onions can be substituted for garlic and onion powder to enhance flavor depth.
- Smoked paprika can add a delightful smoky dimension to the sauce.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking to experience its creamy texture.
