This Easy Homemade Beefaroni is a fun and simple dish made with macaroni, ground beef, and a tasty tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl that everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for Beefaroni, but you can swap it with any short pasta like penne or shells. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta or even use zucchini noodles!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef keeps the dish lighter. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. Plant-based crumbles are also a great alternative if you’re going vegetarian.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: I use both for a rich flavor. If you’re out of one, you can use double the amount of the other. Alternatively, diced tomatoes work well for a chunkier texture.
Beef Broth: If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or even vegetable broth does the trick! Water can work too, but the flavor may be milder.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme gives great flavor. You can use fresh herbs for an even brighter taste if you have them on hand!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Beefaroni?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a great Beefaroni. Here are a few tips:
- Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente. This way, it stays firm and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Drain the macaroni well to prevent excess water from diluting your sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to thicken slightly before mixing. This will help the flavors meld together nicely.
Following these steps will ensure your Beefaroni has a wonderful balance of creaminess without being too runny!
Easy Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes in total to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time boiling pasta and browning the beef, but then it’s simply a matter of mixing everything together! What a speedy and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes for al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure it’s nice and firm—perfect for holding onto all that sauce!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute while mixing often to prevent it from burning.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to your skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly and is fully cooked with no pink remaining—this should take about 7-8 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat so your Beefaroni is not greasy.
4. Create the Sauce:
Now, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth (or water) into the beef mixture. Mix everything well so it’s fully combined. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and give it a good stir. Raise the heat slightly and let it come to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken up a bit, creating a rich base for your Beefaroni.
6. Combine with Macaroni:
Once the sauce has thickened, gently fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious meat sauce. Taste the mixture, and adjust the seasoning if necessary—yum!
7. Serve Up!
Dish out your Beefaroni while it’s hot! Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. If you love cheese as much as I do, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before diving in.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting homemade Beefaroni!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, while gluten-free pasta is a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
How Can I Make Beefaroni Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning since plant-based options can sometimes be less flavorful on their own.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the beef sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce, add the cooked macaroni, and serve. You can also freeze it for up to a month for a quick meal later!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce!
