Welcome to our kitchen, where comfort meets simplicity with our classic Beefaroni recipe! Perfect for family dinners, this delectable dish combines the heartiness of ground beef and pasta with rich tomato flavors that make it an all-time family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a friend-filled gathering, this Beefaroni recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Colander
- Baking dish
How to Make Delicious Beefaroni Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
To start your Beefaroni journey, begin by gathering all your ingredients. This includes making sure your ground beef is thawed, onions are chopped, and macaroni is ready to cook. Having everything prepared in advance ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and then introduce the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics until the onions become translucent and release a delicious scent throughout your kitchen, approximately 5 minutes.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a wooden spatula, break up the beef and cook until it’s fully browned. This process should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Stir in Tomatoes and Sauce
With your beef nicely browned, stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add in Italian seasoning as well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors merge perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Beef and Pasta
Now, it’s time to bring the beef and pasta together! In your skillet, add the cooked macaroni to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the macaroni is evenly coated with the meaty tomato sauce.
Step 7: Bake with Cheese
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the beef-macaroni mixture into a baking dish, layering the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Delicious Beefaroni Recipe
Serve your fragrant Beefaroni hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan if desired!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers to the onion and garlic sauté. Experiment with adding spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for a hit of heat. Remember, personal taste is key, so adjust the seasoning as you see fit!
High Protein Beefaroni: Powering Up Your Plate
Bump up the protein content easily by using lean beef or a mix of beef and turkey. You could also add a can of drained black beans for extra fiber and protein.
Choosing whole grain or protein-enriched pasta can also boost the nutritional profile of this dish, letting you enjoy a filling meal that’s also nourishing.
Low Carb Beefaroni: Carb-Conscious Comfort
Make a low-carb version by swapping out the macaroni for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, providing the same texture without the carbs.
Using a sugar-free tomato sauce and omitting diced tomatoes can also significantly reduce the carbohydrate content, perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
FAQs
- Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it through Step 6 and refrigerate. When ready to eat, top with cheese and bake.
- What can I substitute for cheddar cheese? Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese works well as substitutes.
- How can I make it vegetarian? Swap the beef for lentils or mushrooms for a tasty veg-friendly option.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can be added for more nutrients.
Wrap Up Your Culinary Delight with Beefaroni
This Beefaroni recipe embodies the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity, designed to satisfy both quick fix meals and leisurely family dinners. Share the joy of cooking by trying out this recipe at home and adding your twists for a more personalized experience. Don’t forget to share your results with us using #AmoreRecipes on social media, or leave a comment below sharing your own suggestions!
Delicious Beefaroni Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- elbow macaroni
- tomato sauce
- diced tomatoes
- onion
- garlic
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Gather and prepare all ingredients, ensuring every item is ready before starting the cooking process.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until the onions are translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and thoroughly cooked.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture in the skillet until evenly combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer mixed beefaroni to a baking dish, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 15 minutes.