This homemade Beefaroni is a warm and comforting dish that’s so easy to whip up! With tender pasta, hearty ground beef, and a tasty tomato sauce, it’s sure to please the whole family.
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of this cheesy goodness? I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because let’s be real, more cheese is always better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The heart of Beefaroni, ground beef offers rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, you can use lentils or a meat substitute.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. You can swap it for shallots or even onion powder in a pinch. I often use red onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes the dish aromatic. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work, but fresh truly brings out the best flavor. I love using extra cloves for more garlicky goodness!
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These contribute to the dish’s sauce. If you’re low on either, a blend of crushed tomatoes can step in. Look for no-salt-added versions for a healthier option.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a unique umami depth. If you’re out, soy sauce can be a decent substitute. Also, try ketchup for sweetness if you’re in a bind.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs, this is key for flavor. If missing, use a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Dried herbs keep better and are always handy!
Elbow Macaroni: While elbows are classic, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or rotini. Gluten-free pasta also works great if needed!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef properly is essential for great flavor and texture. It’s important to brown it well to enhance the overall taste of the Beefaroni. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat, adding olive oil only if your beef is lean.
- Once hot, add the ground beef in a single layer. Let it sear for a few minutes before breaking it apart.
- Stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking, until it’s completely browned and no pink remains.
- Draining excess fat can help keep your dish from being too greasy; I usually remove the fat but keep a bit for flavor.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed for browning)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just about half an hour, you’ll have a hearty and comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or pot, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. If you find it’s sticking or not browning well, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds flavor to your dish!
3. Combine the Sauces:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld together.
4. Add the Elbow Macaroni:
Now, it’s time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir the pasta into the sauce until it’s well combined. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and add more broth if it looks too dry.
5. Cheese It Up:
When the pasta is tender, you can stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese if you like. Let it melt into the mixture for extra creaminess and flavor. It’s optional, but it makes the Beefaroni even better!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Now, it’s time to dig into your homemade Beefaroni—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that these meats might not have the same depth of flavor, so consider adding an extra splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
What Can I Substitute for Elbow Macaroni?
You can use any small pasta shape you have on hand, like penne, shells, or fusilli. Just watch the cooking time, as different pasta types may require slightly different cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftover Beefaroni?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be added to the skillet along with the onions and garlic. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so that the veggies become tender but not mushy.
