Beefaroni
This homemade Beefaroni recipe brings together the comforting flavors of ground beef and macaroni in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is not only easy to make but also satisfying and delicious. With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, Beefaroni is sure to become a favorite on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Beefaroni recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of spices and cheese creates a savory taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as a main course or side; it pairs well with salads or garlic bread.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and pasta, kids will enjoy every bite of this hearty meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for quick meals throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Beefaroni successfully, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Large pot
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for cooking the beef evenly while allowing room for all the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure the sauce has the perfect consistency and flavor.
- Large Pot: Necessary for boiling the macaroni to al dente perfection without overcrowding.
Ingredients
This homemade Beefaroni recipe has ground beef and macaroni in the most delicious sauce with a hint of tomato, seasonings, and cheese!
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Salt/Pepper
- ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
For the Pasta
- ½ lb. macaroni (equal to 2 cups)
For the Sauce Mixture
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 8 oz. tomato sauce
- ½ cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- ½ beef bouillon cube (see notes)
- ¾ teaspoon EACH: Dried oregano, basil, parsley
How to Make Beefaroni
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Ingredients
- Combine sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure remaining ingredients before beginning.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Season the ground beef with salt/pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook and crumble for 3 minutes; then add the onions.
- Sauté until the beef is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Drain grease and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Boil Water for Pasta
- Begin boiling a pot of water for the pasta. Once it reaches a boil, add ½ tablespoon salt.
Step 4: Prepare the Roux
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
1. Add garlic, flour, and tomato paste; stir to combine.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Sauce Mixture
- Add the sauce mixture from Step 1 in small splashes while stirring continuously. Do this slowly to keep the roux from breaking.
Step 6: Simmer Sauce
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Keep it uncovered while you boil pasta to al dente, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Add Cheese
- Gradually sprinkle cheese into the sauce while stirring continuously until melted (optional: save some cheese for topping).
Step 8: Combine All Ingredients
- Add back cooked ground beef/onions into the sauce and stir well. Then fold in cooked macaroni gently.
Step 9: Serve
- If desired, sprinkle with remaining cheese and cover briefly to melt before serving hot!
Enjoy your flavorful Beefaroni dish with family or save some for delightful leftovers!
How to Serve Beefaroni
Beefaroni is a comforting and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Garlic Bread
- Classic Pairing: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread alongside Beefaroni for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Flavor Boost: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top of your Beefaroni for a pop of color and added freshness.
With a Side Salad
- Crisp Contrast: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of Beefaroni, adding crunch and brightness.
Paired with Steamed Vegetables
- Nutritious Addition: Steamed broccoli or green beans can provide a healthy side that balances the meal while adding nutrients.
As a Casserole
- Baked Delight: Transfer the Beefaroni to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and bake until bubbly for a casserole twist.
With Pickles or Olives
- Savory Bite: Add pickles or olives on the side for a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
How to Perfect Beefaroni
To make your homemade Beefaroni even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease and better flavor.
- Perfect Your Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for deeper flavors; it makes all the difference!
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Don’t overcook the macaroni; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your preference.
- Make Ahead: Prepare Beefaroni ahead of time and refrigerate. It reheats well and often tastes even better the next day.
Best Side Dishes for Beefaroni
Pairing side dishes with your Beefaroni can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some excellent options.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons provides a great crunch.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and spices, roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements beef dishes well.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds sweetness that balances the savory flavors of Beefaroni.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the pasta dish.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant appetizer.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables bring color and nutrition to your table.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds refreshing sweetness that can cleanse the palate between bites of rich Beefaroni.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Beefaroni at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using Low-Quality Beef – The flavor of your Beefaroni heavily relies on the quality of the ground beef. Always choose fresh, lean ground beef for the best taste.
- Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking macaroni for too long can lead to mushy pasta. Aim for al dente to ensure it holds up well in the sauce.
- Neglecting Seasoning – Failing to season your ingredients properly can make your Beefaroni bland. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously to enhance flavors.
- Skipping the Cheese Mixing – Adding cheese too quickly or skipping it can result in uneven melting. Gradually sprinkle cheese into the sauce while stirring to create a creamy texture.
- Not Checking Sauce Consistency – If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling to the pasta. Simmer longer to thicken the sauce before mixing in the macaroni.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing Beefaroni
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Beefaroni
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Beefaroni in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave – Transfer a portion of Beefaroni into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Beefaroni, here are some common questions answered:
What is Beefaroni?
Beefaroni is a comforting dish made with ground beef and macaroni in a rich tomato sauce, often enhanced with cheese and spices.
Can I use different types of pasta for Beefaroni?
Yes! While traditional recipes use macaroni, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne or rotini.
How do I make my Beefaroni spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the ground beef for an extra kick!
Can I customize my Beefaroni recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Beefaroni recipe is a delightful twist on comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. With endless customization options—like adding veggies or switching up cheeses—it’s easy to make this dish your own. Try it today and enjoy a cozy meal that everyone will love!
Homemade Beefaroni
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
This homemade Beefaroni recipe brings the ultimate comfort food to your dinner table. With tender ground beef and perfectly cooked macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The combination of savory spices and creamy cheese makes Beefaroni a nostalgic favorite that kids and adults alike will adore. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or alongside your favorite side dishes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb macaroni (2 cups)
- ¾ cup diced yellow onion
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- ½ cup half and half
- Various seasonings (including Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and dried herbs)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook seasoned ground beef with onions until browned; drain excess fat.
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente.
- Prepare the roux by melting butter in the skillet, then adding garlic, flour, and tomato paste.
- Slowly mix in beef broth and tomato sauce; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in cheese until melted; add ground beef and cooked macaroni.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with additional cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
