The aroma of simmering tomato sauce mingles with the rich scent of beef, creating a symphony of flavors that instantly transports you to your childhood kitchen. cheesy hamburger casserole Homemade Beefaroni is the ultimate comfort food, reminiscent of carefree days when dinner was a simple joy rather than a complex culinary challenge. cheesy pizza pockets. For more inspiration, check out this Cream Beef Noodle Casserole recipe.
Picture this: a hearty bowl of pasta enveloped in a velvety sauce, topped with gooey cheese, all while being devoured by eager little hands at the dinner table. Italian pasta salad This recipe is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, promising an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Homemade Beefaroni is quick and easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The combination of savory beef and tangy tomato sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile
- It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and cheesy topping, sure to impress anyone who digs in
- Plus, it’s versatile—perfect as a main dish or as a side!
I still remember the look on my kids’ faces when I first made this dish. They were thrilled when they saw it bubbling away on the stove, ready to be served.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease and more flavor; it will cook evenly and absorb all those delicious spices.
Elbow Macaroni: These little pasta shapes are perfect for holding onto the sauce; feel free to swap them for any small pasta you prefer.
Canned Tomato Sauce: Look for a high-quality brand that’s rich and flavorful; this will be the base of your delicious sauce.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves work wonders in elevating the dish’s flavor profile; chop or mince them according to your preference.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully over the top, adding creaminess and richness to every bite.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust based on personal taste.
Sugar: Just a pinch balances acidity from the tomatoes; trust me, it makes all the difference!
Pasta Water: Reserve some starchy water from boiling pasta; it helps thicken the sauce and brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. crispy shrimp egg rolls.
How to Make Homemade Beefaroni
Start with prepping your ingredients so you can move seamlessly through each step.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil before tossing in chopped onions. Cook until they soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant.
Cook the Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef into the skillet with onions and garlic. Break it apart using a wooden spoon until it browns evenly. Drain excess fat if needed to keep it light.
Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in your canned tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning and sugar. Stir well, allowing everything to meld together as it simmers for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Toss in Pasta and Cheese: Add cooked elbow macaroni straight into the skillet along with reserved pasta water if necessary. Mix everything thoroughly before sprinkling generous amounts of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your Beefaroni mix into a greased baking dish before baking uncovered for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy serving hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for an extra pop of color!
This Homemade Beefaroni is more than just another meal—it’s nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re sharing laughs around the table or enjoying leftovers straight from the fridge at midnight (because we all do that), this dish has got you covered!
You Must Know
- Homemade Beefaroni is a family favorite that’s both nostalgic and comforting
- The blend of beef, pasta, and rich sauce creates a delightful meal that brings everyone together
- Plus, it’s budget-friendly and a great way to sneak in some veggies
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef first, then cook the pasta while simmering the sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time and flavors meld beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers and spinach for extra nutrition. Get creative to suit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Homemade Beefaroni, always season your beef well before cooking
- Don’t rush the simmering process; let flavors develop fully
- Lastly, adjust the sauce thickness according to preference with more broth or water if needed
Cooking Homemade Beefaroni always reminds me of my childhood dinners when my mom would whip it up on busy weeknights, making us feel loved and full.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for Homemade Beefaroni?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken also works wonderfully in this dish.
How can I make Homemade Beefaroni healthier?
Add chopped vegetables or use whole-grain pasta for added nutrition and fiber.
What should I serve with Homemade Beefaroni?
Garlic bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with this hearty meal.
Homemade Beefaroni
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Homemade Beefaroni is a comforting dish that takes you back to childhood with its rich tomato sauce and tender pasta. This delightful recipe combines savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and elbow macaroni, all baked to perfection for an irresistible family meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 24 oz canned tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté onions in olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Increase heat and add ground beef; cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar; let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Mix in cooked elbow macaroni and reserved pasta water until well combined. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
