This homemade Beefaroni is a fun and tasty dish that combines spaghetti, ground beef, and a zesty tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Making this dish always brings back childhood memories for me. Plus, it’s quick and easy, so I can whip it up on a busy weeknight. Your family will love it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best to keep it tasty without being too greasy. If you want a healthier option, turkey or even plant-based ground meat can be substituted.
Onion and Garlic: I always use yellow onions for their great flavor, but white onions also do the job. If fresh garlic isn’t on hand, garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) can work in a pinch.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These give the Beefaroni its rich flavor. If you’re out of tomato paste, you can use crushed tomatoes instead. Just add a little less beef broth to adjust the liquid.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer, chicken broth can be used for a different flavor, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is a classic, but feel free to use small shells or corkscrew pasta if you have them! They’ll hold the sauce just as well.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste. However, Monterey Jack or a cheese blend also melts nicely and adds a different twist.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Browned Meat?
Achieving well-browned ground beef is key to deep flavor. Start with a hot skillet to help render the fat and develop rich colors. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding the ground beef.
- Spread the beef evenly in the pan, allowing it to sear without stirring for the first minute or two. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Use a spatula to break it apart, but not too soon! Let it cook some more until it’s evenly browned.
Don’t rush it! Cooking it well will enhance the dish’s flavor. A little patience goes a long way.
How to Make The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beefaroni:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe will take you about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 35 minutes. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for busy weekdays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep an eye on it to make sure it browns evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps your Beefaroni from being too greasy!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook these together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step adds flavor and aroma to your dish!
3. Making the Sauce:
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Add in the Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and bring this delightful mixture to a simmer. You can let it bubble gently for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Cooking the Macaroni:
Next, toss in the elbow macaroni and give it a good stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. You’ll know it’s ready when the macaroni is nice and tender.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the macaroni is cooked through, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy goodness! This cheese makes the dish rich and delicious.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top to add a nice pop of color and flavor. Serve your warm, homemade Beefaroni and enjoy! It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef, making your Beefaroni leaner while still being delicious. Cook it in the same way, but be aware that it may take a couple of extra minutes to brown properly.
What If I Don’t Have Elbow Macaroni?
No problem! You can substitute with any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or even mini fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if the pasta shape requires more or less time to cook.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or heat it on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it from drying out.
