This homemade beefaroni is a cozy and yummy dish made with pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a bowl of warm beefaroni? I usually make a big batch, so I have leftovers for lunch. It’s like a hug on a plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I sometimes use a mix of half beef, half sausage for added flavor.
Elbow Macaroni: While elbow macaroni is traditional, any small pasta works well. Try rotini or penne for a fun twist. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if you need it.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These add richness and depth. You can swap with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. If cooking for kids, consider a low-sugar or organic brand to avoid missed preservatives.
Beef Broth: It deepens the flavor. Feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water in a pinch, but broth enhances the taste significantly.
Italian Seasoning: This blend brings herbs together seamlessly. You can easily replace it with individual herbs like oregano and basil if you have them on hand. Use fresh herbs if available—they offer a brighter flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Is Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Cooking ground beef properly is essential for a delicious Beefaroni. Here’s how:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat before adding oil. This ensures even cooking.
- Add onion and garlic first; they infuse flavors into the oil and beef.
- When you add the beef, break it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned for about 5-7 minutes. Drain the fat afterward, if needed, to avoid greasiness.
- For flavor, season the meat as it cooks. Adding salt and pepper helps build depth right from the start.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked beef that enhances your Beefaroni! Remember to taste your meat mixture before adding the pasta. Adjust the seasonings if necessary.
How to Make The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal on your table in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes nice and translucent. This helps to develop wonderful flavors!
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish from being greasy.
3. Create the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Then add the Italian seasoning, sugar (if you choose to use it), and some salt and pepper for flavor. Bring this delicious mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all the magic happens!
4. Cook the Pasta:
While your sauce is simmering, you can cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for a moment. Don’t forget to stir the sauce occasionally to keep it from sticking!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni to the beef sauce mixture and stir everything until it’s well combined and heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Get ready for the delicious aroma!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade Beefaroni hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will give the dish a lighter flavor. Just be cautious to drain any excess liquid after browning, as turkey can release more moisture than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make Beefaroni vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a tasty meatless version!
Can I Freeze Leftover Beefaroni?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Beefaroni! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Elbow Macaroni?
If you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand, feel free to use other pasta types like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose, so you get that perfect al dente texture!
