Beefaroni
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A comforting classic, Beefaroni combines tender pasta with a savory beef and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick family meal.
This Beefaroni recipe takes you back to childhood with its delightful combination of pasta and ground beef in a zesty tomato sauce. Quick to make and sure to please everyone around the table!
Why You'll Love This Beefaroni
- A nostalgic dish that brings back fond memories
- Quick and easy to prepare on busy nights
- Hearty and satisfying, loved by kids and adults alike
A Taste of Nostalgia
Beefaroni is more than just a meal; it's a nostalgic dish that harkens back to childhood dinners shared with family. The combination of tender pasta and a hearty beef and tomato sauce evokes warm memories of home-cooked comfort. This dish is often associated with simpler times, making it a beloved staple in many households.
The flavors meld perfectly, creating a savory sauce that coats every elbow macaroni piece. Whether you enjoyed it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, Beefaroni is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Quick and Convenient
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. Beefaroni fits perfectly into busy schedules, offering a delicious, homemade option that can be on the table in about 30 minutes. It's a lifesaver for parents juggling work and family commitments.
With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish allows you to focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with loved ones. Plus, it requires just a few simple ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on the most hectic nights.
Loved by All Ages
One of the best things about Beefaroni is its universal appeal. Both kids and adults adore this dish, making it a perfect option for family dinners. The familiar flavors and comforting textures are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Moreover, the addition of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the pasta ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied. It's a dish that brings families together, creating moments of laughter and joy over shared plates.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Beefaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Add the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
Cook the Macaroni
Add the beef broth and elbow macaroni to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the macaroni is tender.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfect Beefaroni
To elevate your Beefaroni, consider adding some vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. Not only will this enhance the nutritional value, but it will also add a colorful touch to your dish. Simply sauté the veggies along with the onions and garlic before adding the beef.
For a spicier kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. This can give your Beefaroni a delightful twist that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
For longer storage, Beefaroni can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure it's well-sealed in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Beefaroni is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Beefaroni.
For a fun twist, try topping your Beefaroni with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta like shells or penne.
→ How can I make this dish healthier?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the Beefaroni ahead of time and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
→ Is Beefaroni suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Beefaroni in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it thoroughly before eating.
Beefaroni
A comforting classic, Beefaroni combines tender pasta with a savory beef and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick family meal.
Created by: Katherine Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Beefaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the beef broth and elbow macaroni to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the macaroni is tender.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g