This homemade Beefaroni is a cozy and tasty meal that kids and adults love! It’s made with yummy pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce.
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I like to sprinkle a bit of cheese on top before serving—who can resist that cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a meat substitute for a hearty version.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These are key for that rich flavor. If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use crushed tomatoes as a substitute. Just adjust your liquids since crushed tomatoes are more runny.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to swap it for any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using a different type.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Many people love to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly in Beefaroni?
Cooking the pasta right in the sauce is a clever way to absorb flavors, but it takes some care. Here’s how to ensure the macaroni is just right:
- After adding the macaroni, stir it well into the sauce to ensure it’s evenly coated.
- Cover the skillet to keep the steam in, which helps cook the pasta faster.
- Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure it’s cooking evenly.
- Taste-testing is your best friend! Check the macaroni for doneness around the 15-minute mark. It should be tender but still have a nice bite.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade Beefaroni takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes to cook, for a total of 40 minutes. You’ll spend a little time browning the beef and cooking the pasta while letting all the delicious flavors meld together. It’s a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, place the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat after cooking, you can drain it to make the dish lighter.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will give your dish a tasty base.
3. Combine the Sauces:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting all the flavors come together beautifully.
4. Mix in the Elbow Macaroni:
Once your sauce is simmering, add in the elbow macaroni. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed. This is what makes Beefaroni so comforting!
5. Let it Simmer:
Cover the skillet and turn the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the macaroni to cook al dente and absorb some of that delicious sauce.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like a cheesy flavor, now is the time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. It will melt into the dish and add extra creaminess!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is cooked through, serve your homemade Beefaroni hot. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even ground pork for added flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the meat’s fat content. Make sure to brown it well before adding the other ingredients.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can easily substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth. If you’re using water, consider adding a bit more seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute like lentil pasta. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up if it becomes too thick.
