This homemade Beefaroni is a warm and comforting dish. It’s made with tender pasta and hearty ground beef, all smothered in rich tomato sauce. What’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds richness to the dish. You can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Trying plant-based crumbles can suit vegetarian diets while still delivering a meaty texture.
Elbow Macaroni: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use any small pasta like shells, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta for added nutrition. Gluten-free pasta works great too, just watch the cooking time!
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: Both provide the base flavor. If you prefer fresher ingredients, using crushed tomatoes or homemade marinara sauce can enhance the taste. For a slight sweetness, try adding a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce gives depth and umami. If you’re out, soy sauce or coconut aminos can serve as a good substitute. Just use less, as they’re more potent.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my go-to for that cheesy pull! If you’re not a fan, try cheddar or a mix of cheeses. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative that also adds a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Cook the Pasta Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking pasta can be tricky, especially when it’s mixed in with sauce. Here are some tips to avoid mushiness:
- Cook the pasta slightly less than the package instructions suggest, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Stir frequently after adding the pasta to prevent sticking. If you notice it getting too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
- Keep the heat low once you’ve added the pasta. This will help it to gently absorb flavors without overcooking.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beefaroni recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it’s nicely browned. If there’s a lot of fat once the beef is cooked, carefully drain the excess fat from the pan.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook those together until the onion turns soft and translucent—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. It will smell delicious!
3. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juices!), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to your taste. Mix everything well!
4. Add the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. When it starts bubbling, toss in the elbow macaroni. Give it a good stir to combine everything together.
5. Cook the Beefaroni:
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. You’re looking for tender pasta and a nice thickened sauce.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you want to indulge a bit, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, serve your warm Beefaroni hot. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for that lovely touch. Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it the same way until it’s browned, and it will work wonderfully in this Beefaroni recipe!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for added flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free Beefaroni!
Can I Make Beefaroni Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point before adding the cheese, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove and add the cheese to melt.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Beefaroni?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a little extra beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
