This Homemade Beefaroni is a deliciously cozy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a comforting family meal. Combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, it’s an easy, one-pot meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This one-pot Beefaroni combines all the flavors of a classic pasta dish with a cheesy, savory twist that makes it a real crowd-pleaser.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix well.
- Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Helpful Tips for the Best Homemade Beefaroni
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar will melt more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Homemade Beefaroni is the ultimate comfort food with a savory sauce, tender pasta, and a layer of gooey cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is ideal for a quick, hearty meal the whole family will enjoy!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well in this dish.
2. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
- Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would make great additions.
3. How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare it up until adding the cheese, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat, add cheese, and stir until melted.
Conclusion
This Homemade Beefaroni is an easy, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its comforting flavors and creamy, cheesy texture, it’s a meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy every bite!