Beefaroni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beefaroni is a classic comfort food made with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all simmered together for a hearty, satisfying dish. It’s a family-friendly meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its cheesy topping and nostalgic flavor, Beefaroni is a dish everyone will want seconds of.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
ground beef
onion
garlic
tomato sauce
tomato paste
diced tomatoes
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
olive oil
shredded cheddar cheese
parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, then stir in minced garlic.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes. Mix well.

Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix until fully coated with the sauce.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover until melted. Add parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream for a creamy twist.
Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly for a casserole-style finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and reheats well.

What pasta shapes can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Shells, penne, or rotini all work well.

Can I make this without cheese?
Yes, just skip the cheese for a dairy-free version.

Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a hit with both kids and adults.

Can I add spice?
Yes, try red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, just substitute with your favorite store-bought marinara.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute.

Conclusion

Beefaroni is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—simple, cheesy, and bursting with comforting flavor. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals ahead of time, Beefaroni is a dependable and delicious go-to.

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