Beefaroni: The Ultimate Homemade Beefaroni Recipe
Introduction to Beefaroni
Homemade Beefaroni is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings back fond memories of childhood dinners. This hearty pasta meal combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, making it a favorite among families. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating a delicious Beefaroni that everyone will love.
A Personal Story Behind My Beefaroni Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed Beefaroni on busy weeknights. It was quick to prepare and always hit the spot. I remember my mother stirring the bubbling pot on the stove while I set the table, eagerly awaiting our meal. Now, I love making this dish for my own family, sharing those same comforting flavors and memories with them.
What Makes This Beefaroni Recipe Special?
This homemade Beefaroni recipe stands out because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and three types of cheese creates a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente elbow macaroni. Plus, it’s completely customizable! You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste or even add vegetables for extra nutrition.
The Full Beefaroni Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking.
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Mix in the garlic salt, oregano, basil, and chili powder. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For a richer flavor, consider simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce in the skillet, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. This is where your dish starts to come together!
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and well mixed into the pasta and sauce. For a crispy top, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Beefaroni
Serve your homemade Beefaroni hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beefaroni
Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
Can I freeze Beefaroni?
Absolutely! Beefaroni freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking.
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Mix in the garlic salt, oregano, basil, and chili powder. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For a richer flavor, consider simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce in the skillet, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. This is where your dish starts to come together!
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and well mixed into the pasta and sauce. For a crispy top, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes.