This Best Homemade Beefaroni is a yummy blend of pasta, ground beef, and tomato sauce, creating a comforting meal that the whole family will love! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
I love how easy it is to whip up, and it tastes way better than the canned stuff! Plus, if you have leftovers, they make for a quick lunch the next day—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its hearty texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for Beefaroni, but if you want to switch things up, feel free to use shells, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier touch.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are key for flavor. If you’re not a fan of sautéed onions, you can skip them and use onion powder instead. For garlic lovers, add an extra clove or two!
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These create the base of your sauce. If you prefer a chunkier texture, use crushed tomatoes instead of diced. For a richer sauce, opt for fire-roasted tomatoes or add a splash of red wine for depth.
Cheddar Cheese: I like using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. If you want something different, try mozzarella for a milder taste or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a more gourmet feel.
How Do I Get the Richest Flavors in My Beefaroni?
Building layers of flavor is crucial in this dish. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant. This brings out their sweetness and depth.
- Cook the onions over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes.
- Ensure the ground beef is well-browned; this adds a nice savory touch.
- Don’t forget to season your beef and sauce mix well with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance those flavors.
- If you’re using sugar, it helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they taste too tart.
- Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to meld all the flavors together with the broth until it’s heated through.
These steps ensure a Beefaroni full of flavor, making it comforting and delicious! Remember, don’t rush—allow each component to shine before combining them.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beefaroni:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni following the instructions on the package until it’s al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for the onion to become translucent and fragrant—this step adds amazing flavor!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and crumbly, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. After the beef is browned, be sure to drain any excess fat so you don’t end up with a greasy dish.
4. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar (if you like a hint of sweetness), and season it with salt and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for a few minutes to combine all those great flavors.
5. Combine with Macaroni:
Once the sauce is heated through, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated with that tasty sauce. It’s starting to look yummy!
6. Add Cheese:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes. This will help the cheese melt perfectly and make everything extra delicious.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your homemade Beefaroni with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy your delightful meal! You did great!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to ground beef. They have a lighter flavor but work well with the spices and sauce. Just cook them until browned, just as you would with beef. You may want to add a bit more seasoning since they can be less flavorful on their own.
What If I Don’t Have Elbow Macaroni?
No problem! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or even spaghetti, cut into smaller pieces. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use lentils. You can also add in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Just keep the other ingredients the same!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out, then warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
