The Best Homemade Beefaroni

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This is the core of the dish, giving it that hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, crumbled tempeh or lentils work great!

Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you could use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if you need a healthier or gluten-free choice. Shapes like shells or fusilli will also hold the sauce really well.

Tomato Sauce & Paste: Both are crucial for that rich tomato flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or even a jar of marinara sauce for a different taste. Just adjust the seasoning as needed!

Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a nice herbal touch. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs like oregano or basil can give it a fresh twist too!

Fresh Basil: While it’s a lovely garnish, you could skip it or replace it with parsley if basil isn’t available. Dried basil can also work in a pinch, but add it while cooking instead of as a garnish.

How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pasta in Beefaroni?

The secret to great pasta in this dish is to cook it right in the sauce. This not only infuses flavor but also makes the pasta absorb some of the sauce, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

• When you add the elbow macaroni, ensure enough liquid is present (the beef broth helps with this).
• Keep the burner on medium-high until boiling to get it cooking quickly.
• Once boiling, turn down the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
• Check the pasta after about 15 minutes to ensure it’s tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).

Letting it sit off the heat for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors mingle. Enjoy your Beefaroni!

The Best Homemade Beefaroni

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 20 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy your delicious homemade Beefaroni!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

Start by heating a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep the dish from being greasy.

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is nice and soft.

3. Mix in the Sauces:

Now, it’s time to stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give everything a good mix so that all the ingredients are combined and you have a lovely, rich sauce.

4. Add the Pasta:

Then, add the elbow macaroni, Italian seasoning, sugar (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, making sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.

5. Simmer the Dish:

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook and absorb all those delicious flavors from the sauce.

6. Serve and Garnish:

After simmering, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out hot, and don’t forget to top it with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your hearty homemade Beefaroni!

Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Elbow Macaroni?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute for elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a minute or two longer to become tender. Adjust the moisture a little by adding a splash more beef broth if the sauce seems too thick.

What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?

No worries! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Alternatively, you can use water, but it might make the dish slightly less flavorful, so consider adding a pinch more salt or seasoning to boost the taste.

How Can I Store Leftover Beefaroni?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a bit of broth if it seems dry.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic until they’re tender before adding the tomato products. This will enhance both flavor and texture!