Craving a comforting pasta dish that’s quick to make? This easy homemade beefaroni recipe is perfect. It combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tasty tomato sauce. This classic dish is great for busy weeknights.
It’s ready in under 30 minutes. This homemade version is much better than the canned kind. It’s perfect for families or when you just want something delicious.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Easy homemade beefaroni recipe ready in under 30 minutes
- Uses common pantry staples like ground beef, macaroni, and tomato sauce
- Offers versatility with easy substitutions and variations
- Suitable for meal prepping and freezing for convenience
- Provides tips for optimal cooking and flavor results
Why This Classic Comfort Food is Perfect for Your Family
Beefaroni is a timeless comfort food that’s great for families. It has simple ingredients that everyone likes. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Kid-Friendly Meal Solution
Beefaroni is loved by kids of all ages. It has familiar flavors of ground beef and pasta with tomato sauce. It’s safe for the whole family.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Beefaroni cooks fast, in just 30 minutes or less. It’s easy to make, even on the busiest nights. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, so cleaning up is a breeze.
Budget-Friendly Dinner Option
Beefaroni is very affordable, making it perfect for families on a budget. It uses common ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes. It’s a great way to feed your family without spending a lot.
“Beefaroni is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and budget-friendly family dinner. It’s a classic comfort food that the whole crew will love.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Beefaroni Recipe
To make a tasty beefaroni dish, start by picking the right ingredients. You’ll need lean ground beef, chopped onion, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, tomato paste, milk, beef broth, and shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t forget paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
For a deeper tomato taste, use more tomato sauce and tomato paste. This makes the beefaroni richer and more tomato-like. You can also make it dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and cheese.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb (pound) |
| Chopped onion | 1 cup |
| Elbow macaroni | 1 lb (16-ounce box) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (28-ounce) |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (5.25-ounce) |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Beef broth | 1 quart (4 cups) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
With these beefaroni ingredients, you’re ready to make a homemade version of this classic comfort food.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect homemade beefaroni, you need some key kitchen tools. A large skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid is essential. This pan lets you brown the ground cooking tools beef, make the tomato sauce, and cook the pasta all at once.
If you like batch cooking, think about using a Dutch oven or large pot. These bigger pots are great for making more beefaroni. They’re perfect for quick meals later in the week.
One-Pan Cooking Essentials
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and breaking up the ground beef
- Cheese grater for freshly shredding cheese (which melts better than pre-shredded varieties)
Optional Equipment for Batch Cooking
- Dutch oven or large pot for preparing larger portions
- Freezer-safe containers for storing and reheating one-pan meal leftovers
- Instant-read thermometer to ensure the ground beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature
With these basic cooking tools and equipment, you’re ready to make tasty, homemade beefaroni. Your family will love it.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make the perfect homemade beefaroni, follow these easy steps:
- Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks for an even texture.
- Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and milk into the skillet. Stir to combine all the liquid ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired spices. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked macaroni pasta to the simmering sauce, stirring to coat the noodles. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the pasta cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the beefaroni is creamy.
The entire process from start to finish takes about 25-30 minutes. This makes it a quick and easy homemade beefaroni recipe that everyone will love.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 476 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 51 g |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 53 mg |
| Sodium | 891 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 1424 IU |
| Calcium | 181 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
The beefaroni recipe serves 8 people, with each serving about 1.5 cups. This classic comfort food is budget-friendly and kid-friendly, ready in just 30 minutes.
Making the Perfect Tomato Sauce Base
The heart of your beefaroni recipe dish is the tomato sauce base. You’ll mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and milk for creaminess. The secret is balancing flavors and seasonings for the perfect taste.
Balancing Flavors and Seasonings
Begin by adding brown sugar to balance the acidity from tomatoes. Then, a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth. Finish with Italian herbs, chili powder, and smoked paprika for a sweet, savory, and spicy blend.
Achieving the Ideal Consistency
Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to meld flavors and achieve a velvety texture. If it’s too thick, add heavy cream or beef broth. For a traditional taste, use more tomatoes and less dairy.
With a great tomato sauce base, you’re set to make a delicious beefaroni recipe dish. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Let the sauce simmer until it’s perfect for tossing with pasta.
Cooking and Seasoning the Ground Beef
To make the perfect beefaroni, start with cooking and seasoning the ground beef right. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, with a lean-to-fat ratio of 85/15, and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
After the beef browns, drain any extra fat from the pan. This is key to avoid greasy beefaroni. Then, season the beef with salt, black pepper, and spices like paprika or Italian seasoning.
- Use 1 pound of 85/15 lean ground beef for best results
- Brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks
- Drain any excess fat from the pan after browning the beef
- Season the seasoned ground beef with salt, pepper, and other spices like paprika or Italian seasoning
For extra flavor, sauté diced onions and minced garlic with the beef for beefaroni before seasoning. This adds a rich, aromatic taste to your beefaroni. Make sure the beef is cooked well before moving on.
“Properly cooking and seasoning the ground beef is the key to building a delicious, well-rounded beefaroni dish.”
Combining Pasta with the Meat Sauce
The secret to a great beefaroni recipe dish is mixing the pasta and meat sauce perfectly. Follow these easy steps to get it right:
Proper Timing for Al Dente Pasta
Put 2 cups of dry elbow macaroni into the simmering meat sauce. Cook it covered for 7-8 minutes, stirring now and then. This will make the pasta just right, not too hard or too soft.
Sauce-to-Pasta Ratio Tips
Make sure the sauce covers the noodles well but doesn’t make it too wet. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or water. Stir gently to keep the pasta whole.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry Elbow Macaroni | 2 cups |
| Beef Broth | 3 cups |
| Tomato Sauce | 15 ounces |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1/2 – 1 cup |
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly cooked pasta and a great sauce mix. Your family will love this delicious beefaroni recipe dish.
“The secret to a great beefaroni recipe is in the balance of the pasta and the sauce. With the right ratio and cooking technique, you’ll end up with a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.”
– Brianne @ Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your homemade beefaroni recipe right is crucial. It keeps the flavors great and food safe. Here are some easy tips to keep your beefaroni fresh and ready to eat.
Storing Beefaroni
After it cools, put your beefaroni recipe in an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for 4-5 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Pasta Dishes
To reheat your beefaroni, add some broth or cream first. Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir it now and then to avoid mushy pasta.
Or, you can heat individual portions in the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring between each one. This ensures it heats evenly.
Remember, don’t overheat the pasta. Gently reheating keeps the pasta al dente and the sauce tasty.
“Properly stored and reheated beefaroni recipe is the key to enjoying its rich, comforting flavors time and time again.”
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your homemade beefaroni for days. Enjoy your meal!
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
When you serve homemade beefaroni, the right side dishes can make it even better. You can choose from classic comfort foods or fresh, vibrant options. These pairings can enhance the rich flavors of this classic pasta dish.
For a simple yet satisfying choice, try garlic bread or cheesy Texas toast with your beefaroni. The crisp, buttery texture and garlicky taste offer a nice contrast to the saucy pasta.
- Crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted zucchini or air-fryer cauliflower tots
- Grilled corn on the cob
Want to add more veggies to your meal? Steamed broccoli or green beans are nutritious and colorful. Grilled corn on the cob is a fun, kid-friendly option. Roasted zucchini or air-fryer cauliflower tots are tasty ways to include more veggies.
“The side dishes you choose can really make or break a beefaroni dish. They need to complement the flavors and textures perfectly.”
Choosing the right side dishes for your homemade beefaroni is key. You want to find a balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying family meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Make your homemade beefaroni even better with a few tweaks. Try using turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different taste. Swap the elbow macaroni for penne, rotini, or small shells to mix up the texture.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce. Make a Mexican-style beefaroni with taco seasoning, sour cream, and cilantro. Or, choose whole-grain pasta and add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier version.
Beefaroni recipe is all about being flexible. Tailor it to your family’s likes and dietary needs. With these easy beefaroni variations and pasta substitutes, you can refresh this classic dish in exciting ways.
| Ingredient | Original Recipe | Variation |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Meat | Ground Beef | Ground Turkey, Chicken, or Italian Sausage |
| Pasta | Elbow Macaroni | Penne, Rotini, Small Shells |
| Spice | Salt and Pepper | Red Pepper Flakes, Cayenne Pepper |
| Sauce | Tomato-Based | Taco Seasoning, Sour Cream, Cilantro |
| Pasta Type | Regular Pasta | Whole-Grain Pasta |
Cooking is all about trying new things and finding what your family enjoys. So, don’t hesitate to experiment with your beefaroni recipes. Discover new flavors and enjoy this beloved comfort food in fresh ways.
Conclusion
This homemade beefaroni recipe is a tasty, customizable twist on the canned kind. It’s a meal that’s both nostalgic and fresh. It’s perfect for busy weeknights because it’s easy to make in one pot.
It’s a hit with both kids and adults because of its comforting taste. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this easy pasta recipe in no time. Making your own homemade beefaroni recipe lets you choose the best ingredients and flavors.
It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that reminds you of your childhood. If you want to make a classic dish or try a new version, this homemade beefaroni recipe is a great choice. It’s a delicious, budget-friendly meal that’s sure to please everyone.
FAQ
What is beefaroni?
Beefaroni recipe is a classic comfort food. It mixes ground beef, macaroni, and a tasty tomato sauce. It’s a simple meal that’s great for busy nights.
Why is this beefaroni recipe a great choice for families?
This homemade beefaroni recipe is easy and affordable. It’s a quick meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
What are the key ingredients in this beefaroni recipe?
You’ll need lean ground beef (or turkey), elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce. Also, tomato paste, milk, beef broth, and shredded cheddar cheese are key. Don’t forget paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder for flavor.
What kitchen tools are needed to make this beefaroni?
You’ll need a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid for cooking. For more, use a Dutch oven or large pot. A wooden spoon, spatula, cheese grater, and basic utensils are also helpful.
How do you make the perfect beefaroni recipe sauce?
Start with tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and milk for creaminess. Add brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce for flavor. Simmer the sauce before adding pasta to enhance the taste.
How do you cook the ground beef for beefaroni?
Brown 1 pound of lean ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks. Drain fat and season with salt, pepper, and spices.
How do you cook the pasta in the beefaroni?
Add elbow macaroni to the simmering sauce. Cook covered for 7-8 minutes, stirring now and then. The pasta will soak up the sauce’s flavors.
How do you store and reheat leftover beefaroni?
Cool beefaroni recipe and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. Freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat with cream or broth to revive the sauce.
What are some good side dishes to serve with beefaroni?
Serve beefaroni recipe with garlic bread, cheesy Texas toast, or a green salad. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans also work well.
Can you make variations or substitutions to this beefaroni recipe?
Yes, try different ground meats or pasta shapes. Add extra veggies or spices to make it your own.
Easy Homemade Beefaroni
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Dutch oven (optional for batch cooking)
- Freezer-safe containers (optional for storage)
- Instant-read thermometer (optional for checking beef doneness)
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 can 28 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 can 5.25 ounces tomato paste
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan and add chopped onions, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to coat the noodles with the sauce. Cover and reduce heat to low.
- Let the pasta cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Nutrition
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