If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, beefaroni is the perfect dish to whip up in just 30 minutes. This classic comfort food combines tender pasta with flavorful beef and a savory tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving something hearty, this homemade beefaroni recipe will become your go-to.
What Is Beefaroni?
Beefaroni is a beloved, easy-to-make pasta dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a deliciously seasoned tomato sauce. It’s a favorite among families for its simplicity and versatility. Think of it as a cousin to goulash or American chop suey, with a smoother, richer flavor that makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
Unlike other complicated pasta dishes, homemade beefaroni can be made in just half an hour with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. With a few simple tweaks, you can customize it to suit your taste or add more nutrition.
Ingredients for Homemade Beefaroni
To create easy beefaroni at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any small pasta of choice)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Choosing the Right Pasta
When making pasta with beef, elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but don’t feel restricted. You can use any short pasta, such as rotini, penne, or ziti. The key is to choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well and creates bite-sized, satisfying portions.
Ground Beef and Seasoning Options
For this recipe, ground beef is the star. However, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Seasoning the beef is crucial, so use a combination of dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Step-by-Step Beefaroni Recipe
Now let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll have homemade beefaroni on the table in no time.
Preparing the Sauce
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Combining the Ingredients
- Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready and the pasta is cooked, add the pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir to combine everything well, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated in the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Optional: Add Cheese: If you want a cheesy twist, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beefaroni and stir until melted. You can also transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a few minutes to get a golden, bubbly finish.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Beefaroni
Making the perfect easy beefaroni is all about balance. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.
Make It Cheesy!
If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hold back! Adding a generous amount of cheddar or mozzarella can make your homemade beefaroni extra creamy and comforting. You can even top it with Parmesan for a sharp, salty kick.
Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Looking to make your beefaroni more nutritious? You can easily sneak in vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the ground beef, and you’ll boost both the flavor and the nutrition.
Variations of Beefaroni
One of the best things about beefaroni is how easy it is to customize. Here are a couple of fun variations to try:
Beefaroni with a Kick
If you like your meals with a little spice, turn up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. You can also swap out regular ground beef for spicy Italian sausage for a more intense flavor.
Healthier Beefaroni
To make a lighter version of this dish, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, and load up on veggies like mushrooms, carrots, and peas.
Storing and Reheating
Beefaroni makes excellent leftovers and can easily be stored for a quick meal later on. Here’s how to store it properly:
- In the Fridge: Store leftover beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or warm it in a skillet on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- In the Freezer: Beefaroni also freezes well. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan.
For more easy pasta recipes, you might also enjoy this beef and broccoli stir fry for a quick, flavorful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make beefaroni ahead of time?
- Yes! Beefaroni can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- What other pasta can I use for beefaroni?
- Any short pasta works well for beefaroni, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but feel free to experiment.
- Can I freeze homemade beefaroni?
- Absolutely! Beefaroni freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- How do I prevent beefaroni from drying out when reheating?
- Add a splash of water or broth to the beefaroni before reheating it on the stove or in the microwave. This will help loosen the sauce and keep it from drying out.
- Can I add cheese to beefaroni?
- Yes! Adding cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, makes the dish creamier and more indulgent. You can also bake it with a cheese topping for a crispy finish.
- What can I serve with beefaroni?
- Beefaroni pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Definitely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and works well in this recipe.
- Is beefaroni gluten-free?
- Beefaroni can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that your tomato sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Enjoy this delicious, comforting homemade beefaroni recipe, perfect for a quick meal that will leave everyone satisfied!