Beefaroni
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender pasta with hearty beef and a rich tomato sauce.
Beefaroni is a beloved dish that brings back memories of childhood dinners. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that can be made quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
- Rich tomato flavor with a touch of beefy goodness
- Quick and easy to prepare on a busy night
The Perfect Family Meal
Beefaroni is the ultimate family meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its hearty combination of pasta and ground beef creates a filling dish that keeps everyone satisfied. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is a go-to option for families looking to enjoy a comforting meal together.
What sets Beefaroni apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes. Want to add some vegetables? Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional punch. Prefer a spicier kick? A dash of red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor profile. This dish allows for creativity while still delivering that beloved classic taste.
Quick and Easy Preparation
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. Beefaroni comes to the rescue with its quick and easy preparation. In just one pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy nights when time is tight but you still want something homemade and satisfying.
The simplicity of the cooking process means you can focus on spending time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen. With minimal prep and clean-up, Beefaroni allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without the usual hassle associated with cooking. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for great next-day lunches.
A Rich and Flavorful Dish
The rich tomato sauce combined with tender ground beef creates a mouthwatering flavor that is sure to please. The addition of Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste, bringing warmth and depth to every bite. This robust flavor profile is what makes Beefaroni such a beloved classic, reminiscent of childhood meals and family gatherings.
Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish achieves a delightful creaminess that complements the hearty ingredients beautifully. The finishing touch of grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the entire experience. Each forkful is a perfect balance of flavors, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Beefaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Combine all ingredients for a delicious and comforting meal!
Steps to Make Beefaroni
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
Add Cheese
Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve
Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni!
Cooking Tips for the Best Beefaroni
To ensure your Beefaroni turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the ground beef until it’s nicely caramelized. This step adds extra flavor and depth to the dish. Additionally, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Taste as you go, and feel free to add herbs and spices that resonate with your palate.
When cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, keep an eye on the water level. If the mixture appears too thick, you can easily add a splash more to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too soupy, simmering it a bit longer will help thicken the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it not only a great meal option but also perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist if necessary.
For longer storage, consider freezing Beefaroni. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly. It’s like having a comforting meal ready to go at a moment’s notice!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta shape will work well in this recipe.
→ How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken and whole grain pasta.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with Beefaroni?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
Beefaroni
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender pasta with hearty beef and a rich tomato sauce.
Created by: Hayley Morton
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Beefaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g