This homemade Beefaroni is a comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, hearty ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
You know it’s a winner when even the pickiest eaters can’t resist it! I love making a big pot so there are leftovers for lunch—bonus points for easy clean-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the foundation of your Beefaroni. If you want a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. They work well and still deliver great flavor!
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for Beefaroni! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta. You could also use penne or shells if that’s what you have on hand.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These create the rich base for the dish. If you’re short on one, just use extra of the other. You can also swap in crushed tomatoes if you like a chunkier texture.
Cheddar Cheese: While it’s optional, I recommend it for a delicious cheesy top! Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Get the Beef Just Right?
Browning the beef properly is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and add the beef in chunks for even browning.
- Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Avoid stirring too much, so it develops a nice brown crust.
- Once it’s fully cooked, drain any extra fat, but don’t worry if you leave a little behind for flavor!
This step gives your Beefaroni a great depth of flavor and makes it super satisfying!
How to Make The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
For Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet or pot, heat it over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s brown and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan to keep it from being greasy.
2. Cooking the Veggies:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion looks soft and translucent.
3. Mixing in the Pasta:
Throw the elbow macaroni into the skillet. Mix it well with the beef and onion so that it’s all combined and ready for the sauce.
4. Adding the Sauce:
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it looks well mixed and delicious!
5. Simmering the Mixture:
Bring the pot to a boil to get things cooking, then lower the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will cook the macaroni and let the flavors blend while most of the liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it!
6. Melting the Cheese:
If you want that cheesy goodness, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top once the macaroni is cooked. Cover the pot again until the cheese melts into gooey perfection!
7. Serving Your Dish:
Once everything is ready, serve your homemade Beefaroni hot. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead of Elbow Macaroni?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for elbow macaroni. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different pasta types may cook faster or slower. Keep an eye on it, and taste test to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth are great alternatives. You can also make your own by simmering water with some herbs and seasonings for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly if using a salted broth!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating to bring back some moisture!
