This homemade Beefaroni is a cozy mix of pasta and beef in a rich and tangy tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, super comforting and easy to make!
Trust me, the kids (and adults) will love it! I often make a big batch, so I have leftovers for busy days. Who doesn’t love a quick and tasty meal ready to go? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead. They provide a similar texture with less fat.
Elbow Macaroni: This classic shape holds the sauce well, but feel free to switch to shell pasta, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthy twist.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt. You can also use crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce for a chunkier texture.
Beef Broth: If you’re short on beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth works just fine. You might also use water, but it may lack depth.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess, but feel free to mix in cheddar or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked pasta in this recipe is careful simmering. Once the skillet reaches a gentle boil after adding the macaroni, you want to turn down the heat. This prevents the pasta from overcooking and sticking together.
- Stir the macaroni right after adding it to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the skillet to trap steam but stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the pasta a couple minutes before the time is up; it should be firm but tender, not mushy!
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 25-30 minutes total to prepare this delicious Beefaroni. This includes about 10 minutes for cooking and another 15-20 minutes for simmering and combining all the flavors. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some of it off.
2. Add the Seasonings:
After the beef is browned, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook these together for another minute to let the flavors blend and become fragrant.
3. Combine with Sauce and Broth:
Next, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Mix it well, cover the skillet, and turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the macaroni cook evenly and prevents it from sticking.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the macaroni is tender, mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and thoroughly combined with the sauce and macaroni.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just be aware that turkey may produce a leaner dish, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil or butter for moisture. Cook the turkey in the same way as the beef until it’s browned and well-seasoned.
What Can I Use Instead of Elbow Macaroni?
If you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand, feel free to use any small pasta like mini shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as different pasta shapes may require more or less time to cook until tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to bring back some moisture, stirring occasionally until heated through.
