Beefaroni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beefaroni is the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying, flavorful dish in one pot. The ground beef and seasoned tomato sauce create a rich base, while the elbow macaroni provides the perfect texture to absorb all the flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to prepare, and it’s a meal that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or add-ins.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 28 ounces tomato sauce
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Add the Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine the Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese to make it extra creamy and cheesy.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to give it a little heat.
• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use different pasta: While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or rotini.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Beefaroni ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Beefaroni?

Yes, Beefaroni can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to make a leaner version of the dish.

4. Can I add cheese to Beefaroni?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top before serving or stir it into the sauce to create a creamy texture.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them down into a sauce first. Add a bit of water and seasonings to help form the sauce consistency.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, try adding red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the sauce.

8. Can I add vegetables to the Beefaroni?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms can be added for more flavor and nutrients.

9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the ground beef and add more vegetables, or use a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or lentils for a vegetarian version.

10. How do I make Beefaroni less saucy?

If you prefer a drier Beefaroni, you can reduce the amount of tomato sauce or let it simmer longer to cook off some of the liquid.

Conclusion

Beefaroni is a classic, quick, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. With its savory beef, seasoned tomato sauce, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to please the entire family. You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins or seasonings, making it a versatile meal that everyone will enjoy.

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