Beefaroni is a nostalgic and satisfying meal that brings together tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce into one comforting dish. It’s quick, filling, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and leftovers the next day. Unlike store-bought versions or canned varieties, this easy homemade beefaroni recipe allows you to control the quality of ingredients, the seasoning, and the portion size. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s perfect for families and busy individuals looking for a quick, home-cooked option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture.
Why Make Homemade Beefaroni?
Healthier and More Flavorful
Store-bought beefaroni can contain preservatives, excess sodium, and artificial flavors. Making it at home gives you the chance to use fresh ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can even sneak in some vegetables or use whole wheat pasta for a more nutritious version.
Customizable to Suit Your Taste
Homemade beefaroni is flexible. You can make it cheesy, spicy, or extra saucy. You can also switch up the meat or add different herbs to enhance the flavor. This makes it easy to create your perfect comfort food dish while still keeping it simple.
Easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 34 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste (if using). Mix well.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 1015 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and stir until melted and combined.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Choose the Right Pasta
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for beefaroni, but any small pasta such as rotini, penne, or shells will work. Just make sure not to overcook the pasta so it stays firm when mixed with the sauce.
Use Lean Ground Beef
Using 85% or 90% lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat while still keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
Let the Sauce Simmer
Allowing the sauce to simmer for a little longer enhances the flavor and gives the tomato sauce time to thicken. This creates a rich, hearty texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor
Vegetables
- Bell peppers (diced)
- Carrots (grated)
- Zucchini (diced)
- Mushrooms (sliced)
- Spinach (stirred in at the end)
Spices and Seasonings
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Italian seasoning blend
- Smoked paprika for added depth
- Worcestershire sauce for umami flavor
Extra Cheese
Cheddar is a popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, parmesan, or a blend of cheeses for a gooey, melty topping. Bake the beefaroni in a casserole dish with cheese on top for a few minutes to get a crispy, golden finish.
Meal Prep and Storage
Great for Leftovers
Beefaroni tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra sauce to loosen it up.
Freezing Instructions
This dish freezes well. After the beefaroni cools, place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed for a convenient homemade meal.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread
- Green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted vegetables
Garnishes
Top your beefaroni with chopped parsley or grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a touch of freshness. A little drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of black pepper can also elevate the final dish.
Why This Easy Beefaroni Recipe Works
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. It uses pantry staples, comes together quickly, and delivers comforting results that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving something warm and hearty, beefaroni is a reliable go-to recipe. It’s filling, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
Making beefaroni from scratch is easier than you might think, and the payoff is well worth the effort. With its savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and optional cheesy touch, it hits all the right notes for a wholesome, comforting meal. This easy homemade beefaroni recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, simple weekend meals, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Try it once, and you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again. It’s a timeless classic with room for creativity, ready to become a new family favorite in your kitchen.