This homemade Beefaroni is a super tasty dish that mixes pasta with beef and a yummy tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl and perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how easy it is to make—just cook the beef, mix it with pasta and sauce, and you’re all set! It’s a real crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this recipe, as it avoids excess grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes.
Onion & Garlic: Use yellow onion for sweetness. Red onion can work, too, if you want a bit more bite. For garlic, feel free to add more cloves if you’re a garlic lover!
Elbow Macaroni: I love elbow macaroni for its perfect size, but small shells or penne can also be delicious alternatives. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold the sauce well.
Beef Broth: If you don’t have beef broth, vegetable broth or chicken broth can be used for different flavor profiles. Homemade broth always gives a richer taste!
Tomato Sauce & Paste: Look for low-sodium versions if you want to control the salt. If you’re out of tomato paste, you may use extra sauce instead, but it will alter the consistency.
How do I ensure my macaroni cooks perfectly in the sauce?
The key to cooking the macaroni right in your sauce is the simmering process. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Add the macaroni after the sauce comes to a boil. This helps it absorb flavors.
- Cover the skillet once the macaroni is in, keeping the steam in for even cooking.
- Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Taste a couple of minutes before the end of the cooking time to check if it’s al dente.
If it seems dry, you can always add a bit more broth or sauce to loosen it up.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beefaroni:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep, like chopping onions and garlic, and then about 20 minutes cooking everything together until it’s deliciously ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This will build a lovely foundation for your Beefaroni!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your dish nice and clean!
3. Mix in the Sauces and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add in the flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix to combine all those tasty ingredients together.
4. Add the Macaroni:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir it well, making sure the macaroni gets coated with that rich sauce.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Check on it occasionally, giving it a stir to prevent the macaroni from sticking. You want the macaroni to be cooked al dente and absorb some of the sauce for maximum flavor.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Once the macaroni is perfectly cooked, taste it. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve your warm Beefaroni right away, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef to make a lighter version. Just be mindful that these meats may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can replace beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. If you want a richer flavor without broth, you can simply use water and add a bit more seasoning, like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
Can I Make Beefaroni Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare Beefaroni in advance! Cook it as directed, then let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave.
