Print

Beefaroni

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Beefaroni is a classic comfort food dish made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni (or any small pasta of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the tomato sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Add the dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  5. Combine with pasta: Once the sauce has thickened and is heated through, stir in the cooked pasta and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
  6. Add cheese: If you want a cheesy Beefaroni, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and combined. Alternatively, you can sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot!

Notes

Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.To make it creamy, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.For a casserole, bake the Beefaroni with cheese on top for a few minutes.

Nutrition