This homemade beefaroni is a cozy bowl of deliciousness! It’s made with tender beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all mixed together for a hearty meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? The kids enjoy it, and I’m always happy to make it, especially when I can sneak in some veggies, too! 🍝
I love that it’s quick to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, leftovers make for a tasty lunch the next day—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for this recipe. It keeps the dish rich without too much grease. You can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Onion: A small diced onion adds sweetness and flavor. If you have a different variety like shallots or a red onion, they work well too! Just note that red onions have a sharper taste.
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta shape is classic for beefaroni, but feel free to swap with other small shapes like shells or penne if that’s what you have on hand.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: These are essential for your beefaroni’s sauce. You can also use crushed tomatoes instead of diced if you prefer a smoother texture. Canned tomatoes are great but fresh tomatoes in season could also be a delicious swap!
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a lot of flavor. If your pantry doesn’t have it, mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a similar taste.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the ground beef well is key to a great beefaroni. Begin by using medium heat to help brown the beef evenly. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This prevents clumps and allows it to brown nicely.
- In your skillet, add the ground beef and let it sit for a minute.
- Stir and break it into smaller pieces, cooking until fully browned.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat so your dish isn’t too greasy!
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Macaroni:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
For Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beefaroni recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on preparation and cooking the beef mixture, and another 10-15 minutes cooking the macaroni and combining everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, making sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add the Tomato Ingredients:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for a few minutes while you prep the macaroni.
3. Cook the Macaroni:
In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the macaroni and set it aside. This step is important so that your pasta doesn’t get soggy when mixed with the beef sauce.
4. Combine Everything:
Once your beef mixture is simmering nicely, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir everything together so the macaroni is well coated with the beef and sauce mixture. Let it heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Cheese and Serve:
If you want to include mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the mixture and let it melt for a few minutes. This adds a lovely creamy texture to your beefaroni! When ready, serve it hot and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy your homemade beefaroni!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as alternatives. Just ensure that the cooking time remains similar to ensure everything is evenly cooked and flavorful!
What Can I Use Instead of Elbow Macaroni?
If you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand, feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even small shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments!
How to Store Leftover Beefaroni?
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating!
Can I Make Beefaroni Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare Beefaroni in advance! Just follow the steps and store it in the fridge before the final heating step. When you’re ready to serve, just heat everything through on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick!
