This homemade Beefaroni is a warm, comforting dish that’s super easy to make! With ground beef, pasta, and a tasty tomato sauce, it’s a family favorite that brings smiles all around.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a big bowl of cheesy goodness? I always cook a little extra so I can enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day—because this dish is just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like mushrooms.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: The combination of these adds depth to the dish. If you don’t have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes work well too. For a little kick, opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are super handy, but if fresh tomatoes are available, chop them up and add them in!
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for Beefaroni. You can use shells or penne if you don’t have elbow macaroni. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if you need a gluten-free meal.
Beef Broth: It helps in cooking the pasta and adds richness. Vegetable broth can be a tasty substitute if you want to keep it on the lighter side. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Italian Seasoning: This gives the dish an herbaceous flavor. If you lack Italian seasoning, mixing dried oregano, basil, and thyme can work well too. Fresh herbs enhance the taste even more if you have them!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pasta just right is key—too soft and it loses its texture! Here are some tips to keep it al dente:
- Start by ensuring the liquid is simmering before adding your elbow macaroni. This helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Cover the skillet as the macaroni cooks. This traps heat and allows the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time. You want the pasta cooked but with a slight bite!
Once finished, taste it! If it’s not quite there, give it another minute or two. It’s all about personal preference!
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homemade Beefaroni takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need around 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook the beef while breaking it apart with a spoon until it is fully browned, which takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off, but leave some for flavor!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add great flavor to your Beefaroni!
3. Mixing in the Sauces:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and if you like, the teaspoon of sugar. Bringing it all to a simmer is your next step. This means just heating everything until it bubbles gently.
4. Cooking the Macaroni:
Now it’s time for the elbow macaroni! Add it to the skillet and give it a good stir to mix everything together. Cover the pot and let it cook on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes. You want the macaroni to become tender and soak up some of that delicious liquid.
5. Final Seasoning:
After the macaroni is cooked, give your Beefaroni a taste. This is the moment to season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Mix it well!
6. Serving Your Beefaroni:
Serve your warm Beefaroni in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley for that special touch. If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before enjoying. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you might consider adding a bit of extra seasoning to enhance the flavor since turkey can be milder than beef.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. This will still give your Beefaroni great flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste may vary slightly based on the broth you choose.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful that adding too many vegetables may require adjusting the amount of liquid in the recipe.
