This Easy Homemade Beefaroni is a fun one-pot meal made with tender pasta, beef, and a tasty tomato sauce. It’s perfect for busy nights and loved by kids and adults alike!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a lighter choice, ground turkey or chicken also works great.
Elbow Macaroni: This traditional shape is perfect, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can be a tasty swap.
Beef Broth: For a richer flavor, use beef broth. If you don’t have any, water mixed with a beef bouillon cube does the trick. Vegetable broth is also a good alternative if you’re looking for a meat-free version.
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is quick and easy, but you can use crushed tomatoes or even homemade tomato sauce if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning to taste!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar adds a lovely flavor, you can skip it or try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist. Vegan cheese alternatives are also an option for plant-based diets.
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot with the beef and sauce is easy, but a few tips help you get the best results:
- Ensure the beef is fully browned first—this adds flavor to the entire dish.
- Add enough broth to cook the pasta; it should simmer gently. The pasta will absorb the liquid, so adjust accordingly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This also ensures even cooking.
- Check the pasta for doneness toward the end of the cooking time—everyone likes their pasta a little different!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a satisfying and delicious beefaroni in no time!
Easy Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or wide pan over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook while stirring and crumbling the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish light.
2. Add the Pasta:
Once the beef is cooked, toss in the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. This will make sure everything combines beautifully!
3. Mix in Broth and Sauce:
Next, pour in the beef broth along with the tomato sauce. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together evenly.
4. Season it Up:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning or dried oregano. Mix it again so all the flavors spread throughout.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. When it’s done, the pasta should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you want a gooey, cheesy finish, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts perfectly into the mixture.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, scoop your delicious beefaroni into bowls, garnish with some fresh chopped basil or parsley, and get ready to enjoy your comforting meal!
This Easy Homemade Beefaroni is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy it hot and watch it disappear!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Beefaroni
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef, making the dish lighter while still full of flavor. Just be sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink, similar to the beef.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can use water mixed with a beef bouillon cube or powder as a quick alternative. Vegetable broth also works if you want a meatless option. Just adjust the seasonings to your taste!
Can I Prepare Beefaroni Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Use vegetable broth and make sure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly if using!
