Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a warm, cheesy, and satisfying Beefaroni Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese into a baked casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. It’s a nostalgic favorite for many, inspired by the canned variety but elevated with fresh ingredients and homemade flavors. With its simple preparation and bold, comforting taste, this Beefaroni Casserole recipe is sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
What Is Beefaroni Casserole?
Beefaroni Casserole is a baked pasta dish made with elbow macaroni (or a similar pasta), ground beef, tomato-based sauce, and cheese. It’s a homemade twist on the popular canned meal many grew up eating, but with more depth of flavor and customizable ingredients. The casserole format not only enhances the texture and taste but also allows for make-ahead convenience and easy serving for a crowd.
Ingredients for Classic Beefaroni Casserole
The ingredients for this dish are straightforward, affordable, and commonly found in most kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic version of Beefaroni Casserole:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or leaner)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for texture)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 to 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Optional Additions:
- Crushed red pepper for a little heat
- Grated Parmesan for extra cheesy flavor
- Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added veggies
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onions until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Add the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure even coating. If you like your casserole extra cheesy, you can stir in half of the shredded cheese at this stage.
6. Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Rest and Serve
Allow the Beefaroni Casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Slice into portions and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Flavor and Texture Profile
Beefaroni Casserole is a flavor-packed dish with a combination of savory beef, bright tomato sauce, and creamy, melted cheese. The pasta adds a satisfying bite while absorbing all the rich flavors of the sauce. With the top layer of cheese melted to perfection, each bite delivers comfort and heartiness. If you enjoy meals that feel like a hug in a bowl, this casserole is for you.
Tips for the Best Beefaroni Casserole
- Use quality ingredients: Choose a good tomato sauce and fresh cheese for better overall flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta ensures it won’t turn mushy in the oven.
- Balance the sauce: If your sauce feels too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help mellow it out.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit briefly after baking improves texture and makes cutting easier.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the basic Beefaroni Casserole, feel free to get creative. Here are some easy variations to try:
1. Spicy Beefaroni
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a little heat. Pepper jack cheese can also replace cheddar for a spicy twist.
2. Vegetarian Version
Omit the ground beef and use lentils, black beans, or chopped vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. You’ll still get a hearty texture with plenty of flavor.
3. Creamy Beefaroni
Stir in a half cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the sauce for a richer, creamier consistency.
4. Kid-Friendly Beefaroni
Use fun-shaped pasta like shells or wagon wheels and keep seasonings mild. Top with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey finish kids will love.
What to Serve with Beefaroni Casserole
Though it’s a complete meal on its own, Beefaroni Casserole pairs beautifully with side dishes to round out your dinner table. Consider these ideas:
- Garlic bread or breadsticksfor a crunchy, buttery contrast
- Green saladwith a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Steamed vegetablessuch as broccoli, green beans, or carrots
- Roasted caulifloweror Brussels sprouts for extra fiber and texture
Make-Ahead and Storage
Beefaroni Casserole is ideal for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. Here’s how you can store and reheat it:
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it covered. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
- Freezing: Freeze fully baked and cooled casserole tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
This recipe for Beefaroni Casserole is more than just a delicious dinner it’s a comforting, customizable dish that brings people together around the table. With its blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s easy to prepare, kid-approved, and perfect for leftovers. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, Beefaroni Casserole is a timeless meal that delivers every time.