This homemade Beefaroni is a hearty and comforting dish that combines pasta and beef smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for any dinner table, it’s so much better than the canned kind!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the beef, mix everything together, and let it simmer. It’s a definite crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using 80/20 ground beef for this recipe as it gives a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking to reduce fat, lean ground beef or ground turkey works great too. Veggie options like lentils or plant-based ground meat can be excellent for a meatless version.
Onion and Garlic: The onion brings sweetness, while garlic adds a punch. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh gives a much better flavor. Green onions or shallots can also work if you want a different twist!
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: Use canned products for convenience, but fresh tomatoes can be used if they’re in season. If you prefer a bit more spice, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. You can also swap tomato sauce for marinara if you like more seasoning.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds sweetness and depth. If you want, substitute it with barbecue sauce for a smoky taste, or use a bit of sugar mixed with vinegar for a tangy flavor profile.
How Do I Get My Pasta to Cook Perfectly in the Beefaroni?
Cooking the elbow macaroni in the sauce is key to blending flavors. Make sure your mixture is boiling before adding the pasta. Here’s how to nail it:
- After the sauce boils, add the elbow macaroni and gently stir.
- Cover and reduce heat to low. This helps trap steam for even cooking.
- Stir occasionally for about 15-20 minutes, checking the pasta for doneness. Fresh pasta timing varies, so taste it!
- If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of beef broth or water while simmering to help the pasta cook through.
These steps will help ensure your beefaroni is creamy and flavorful! Enjoy making everyone’s favorite comfort food!
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Beefaroni:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- For Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe will take around 30 minutes total, including about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. You’ll love how quickly it comes together for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned. If there’s extra fat in the pan, you can drain it out. This step adds great flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent. It should smell lovely!
3. Create the Sauce:
Time to add some saucy goodness! Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni into the skillet. Then, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to stir now and then, so the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs all that delicious liquid.
5. Add Cheese (Optional but Recommended):
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking. Put the lid back on and let it melt into a comforting, gooey layer.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and melty, serve your Beefaroni hot! Garnish each serving with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of flavor and color. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you might want to add an extra pinch of seasoning to enhance the taste.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth works well too. For a richer flavor, you can use water with a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to give it depth without adding beef broth.
How to Store Leftover Beefaroni?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-friendly container and it can last for about 2-3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta like shells, penne, or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger pasta may need a little longer to cook through.
