This homemade Beefaroni is a cozy dish that mixes pasta and beef in a tasty tomato sauce. Perfect for the whole family, it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
The best part is that it’s super easy to make! I love whipping this up on busy nights, and the kids always ask for seconds. Who can resist cheesy pasta goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the key protein in the dish. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or veggie crumbles.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to swap it with other pasta like small shells or penne. Gluten-free pasta also works well if needed. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta type.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the flavor. A low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth can be a good substitute. If you prefer a richer taste, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can boost the flavor.
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These are essential for creating the sauce. If you’re out of canned tomatoes, fresh chopped tomatoes or tomato puree can be good substitutes. Consider adding a bit of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
Spices: Italian seasoning and paprika give great flavor. You can mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a similar taste. For a kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up!
How Do I Perfectly Cook Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Cooking ground beef properly ensures it’s flavorful and not greasy. Start by preheating your skillet and adding olive oil. Here are some tips:
- Use a medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the beef.
- Break up the meat as it cooks so that it browns evenly without clumping.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from getting oily.
Incorporating these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked beef as the foundation for your Beefaroni.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion looks translucent and fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to add flavor. Mix everything well so that the beef and sauces are combined.
4. Add the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling lightly, add the elbow macaroni. Stir to ensure the macaroni is evenly distributed in the sauce.
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Beefaroni is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help the flavors meld together. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that the flavor might be a bit milder, so you may want to increase the seasoning slightly to enhance the taste.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as an alternative. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to mimic the depth of beef broth.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the mixture feels dry.
