Beefaroni

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting classic that combines pasta with a rich beef and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick family dinner.

Abigail Foster

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:20:52.344Z

Beefaroni is a nostalgic dish that many grew up loving. It's a simple blend of flavors that warms the soul and fills the belly. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich beef flavor combined with cheesy goodness
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • Perfect for picky eaters and kids alike

A Family Favorite

Beefaroni is not just another pasta dish; it’s a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time. Families have enjoyed this hearty meal for generations, making it a staple on dinner tables. The combination of tender pasta enveloped in a savory beef and tomato sauce creates a satisfying dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. It’s a fantastic way to bring everyone together over a shared meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

One of the best things about Beefaroni is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it makes for a quick dinner solution without sacrificing flavor. This dish seamlessly blends the wholesome goodness of pasta with the rich, meaty sauce, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something to love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies if you choose to add them!

Versatile and Customizable

While the classic Beefaroni recipe is delicious as is, it also leaves plenty of room for customization. You can easily add your favorite vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach—to boost the nutritional value. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses or pasta shapes to make it your own. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create a version that suits your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

For those looking to spice things up a bit, adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, consider mixing in some cooked sausage or ground turkey for a different twist. The possibilities are endless, making Beefaroni a dish that can evolve with your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Beefaroni is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at once and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. This not only saves you time during busy weeks but also ensures that you always have a hearty, homemade meal on hand. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you’ll always have a comforting dish ready to go.

When stored properly, Beefaroni can last in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This makes it a practical option for busy families looking to take the stress out of weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Beefaroni

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni with a side salad or garlic bread!

Storage Tips

To ensure your Beefaroni stays fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best consumed within three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. This will help maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor that makes this dish so enjoyable.

If you plan to freeze your Beefaroni, portion it out into individual servings. This way, you can easily grab a meal when you're short on time. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Beefaroni pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Additionally, serving it with crusty garlic bread allows you to soak up every last bit of the savory sauce, making for a satisfying meal.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing your Beefaroni with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation to your plate, making it feel like a special occasion meal even on a busy weeknight.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Beefaroni can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.

Beefaroni

A comforting classic that combines pasta with a rich beef and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick family dinner.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Abigail Foster

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Beefaroni

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1 onion, diced
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  6. 2 cups elbow macaroni
  7. 2 cups beef broth
  8. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Step 02

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Add the elbow macaroni and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 04

Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g