This homemade beefaroni is a cozy meal that mixes tasty pasta with ground beef and a rich tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🍝
I love how quickly this dish comes together. Just cook up the beef, stir in some sauce, and mix it with pasta. Perfect for a busy weeknight! Plus, leftovers are a treat. 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds great flavor. If you want a lighter dish, use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or meat substitutes made from soy or beans.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for this recipe! You could swap it with other small pasta shapes like shells or penne if you prefer something different.
Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste: These give your Beefaroni its rich tomato flavor. If you’re out, you can use crushed tomatoes instead of sauce and paste; just adjust the liquid a bit. Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a twist!
Beef Broth/Water: Beef broth enhances the depth of flavor. Vegetable broth or even chicken broth can be used instead if you want a different taste. Water works too but may need extra seasoning.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning gives a nice touch. Feel free to mix and match spices like oregano or thyme based on your flavor preference. Fresh garlic and onions are great substitutes for powder!
Cheddar Cheese: The cheese adds creaminess. Want a twist? Try mozzarella for a stringy texture, or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
How Do I Cook the Macaroni Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking macaroni in the same pot with the sauce creates tasty flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your sauce is well-seasoned before adding the macaroni. Taste it to get the right flavor.
- Bring your sauce mixture to a simmer before stirring in the elbow macaroni. This helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Cover the pot after adding the macaroni and lower the heat. This keeps the steam in and cooks the pasta perfectly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and make sure it doesn’t dry out. If it looks too thick, add a bit more broth or water.
- Once the pasta is tender (after about 15-20 minutes), stir in the cheese until melted.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to enjoy a hearty dish of homemade Beefaroni!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep your Beefaroni nice and light.
2. Add the Sauces and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, followed by the beef broth (or water). Then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the pot to a nice simmer over medium heat. This will enhance all those wonderful flavors! Once it’s bubbling, take a moment to enjoy the aroma—delicious! Then, you’ll be ready to add the elbow macaroni.
4. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Add the elbow macaroni to the simmering mixture and give it a good stir. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and has soaked up a lot of the liquid.
5. Add Cheese and Serve:
If you’re a cheese lover, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and is evenly mixed through the Beefaroni. Once everything is creamy and comforting, it’s time to serve! Spoon it into bowls and if you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni—dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with small shells, penne, or even fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may cook at different rates.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or need a meat alternative, ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils would work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using lentils, as they will require additional liquid and a bit more simmering.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too dry. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian Beefaroni, omit the ground beef and replace it with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
