Homemade Beefaroni
This Homemade Beefaroni is a delicious, comforting, and budget-friendly meal made with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar, optional
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Drain well and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add the Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
If the tomatoes are particularly acidic, add the optional teaspoon of sugar.
Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can develop.
5. Combine With the Pasta
Add the cooked macaroni to the beef and tomato mixture.
Stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella over the top.
Cover the skillet and cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely.
Alternatively, transfer everything to a baking dish, top with the cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
7. Serve
Spoon the hot Beefaroni into bowls and serve immediately.
Pair it with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables.
Recipe Tips
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when combined with the hot sauce.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Sharp cheddar gives the dish a richer cheesy flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or tomato sauce if the pasta has become dry.
Prep & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Meta Description
Make comforting homemade Beefaroni with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar and mozzarella. An easy family-friendly dinner.