Easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Name: Easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 15 oz canned tomato sauce; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Water or broth for cooking

Published: March 7, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful homemade Beefaroni recipe offers simple preparation that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that delights every palate.
Plus, it’s visually appealing with vibrant colors and textures that draw everyone in.
Enjoy it as a classic comfort meal or customize it with your favorite ingredients for added flair.

I once whipped up this homemade Beefaroni recipe for my friends during game night; let’s just say I barely had leftovers!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease but don’t skimp on flavor—it’s crucial!
Elbow Macaroni: Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Canned Tomato Sauce: Opt for quality tomato sauce; it makes all the difference in taste.
Onion: Use one medium onion; sautéing enhances its sweetness and adds depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential—nothing beats that aromatic kick!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the flavor profile; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar on top creates a melty finish that’s utterly irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; always taste as you go!
Water or Broth: For cooking the pasta; broth can add an extra layer of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes—this step creates an aromatic base.

Mix in Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in canned tomato sauce alongside Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Cook Elbow Macaroni Separately: In a pot of salted boiling water, add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse—keep those flavors intact!

Combine Everything Together: Add cooked macaroni into the skillet with beef mixture. Stir everything together until combined well; it should be saucy yet not too runny.

Add Cheddar Cheese Topping**: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the skillet briefly until cheese melts into gooey perfection—about 1-2 minutes should do.

Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni hot out of the skillet! Serve with crusty bread or alongside a fresh salad if you’re feeling fancy.

This delightful dish brings back memories of childhood dinners while offering flavorful satisfaction that’s hard to resist. Give this homemade Beefaroni recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

You Must Know

This Homemade Beefaroni recipe is more than just nostalgic; it’s a comforting dish that brings smiles.
The aroma of simmering beef and cheese will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner.
Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal fast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef first, then cook the pasta while the sauce simmers. This method ensures that everything finishes around the same time, maximizing flavor and efficiency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper for a customized kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making this Homemade Beefaroni, remember to drain excess fat after cooking the beef for a healthier dish.
Use freshly grated cheese to enhance flavor and melt better.
Don’t skip letting it rest before serving, as it helps flavors meld beautifully.

Cooking this Homemade Beefaroni recipe always makes me think of family gatherings when my mom whipped it up in no time. Everyone would devour it within minutes, smiles all around!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta in this Homemade Beefaroni recipe?

Yes, whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrition without sacrificing taste.

How do I make my Homemade Beefaroni spicier?

Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce during cooking to kick up the heat.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container for up to three months in the freezer.

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