Are you looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to whip up and doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes? This One Pot Beefaroni recipe is the answer to your culinary prayers. Perfect for busy weeknights or even relaxed weekends, this meal is a savory blend of pasta, beef, and perfectly balanced tomato flavors. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Knife and chopping board
How to Make One Pot Beefaroni Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef. Stir occasionally as it cooks, breaking up the meat into smaller pieces. It’s essential to ensure the beef gets evenly browned and that excess fat is drained away once cooked fully. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavors for your beefaroni.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
After draining fat, add chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the browned beef. Sauté them together, stirring frequently until the vegetables become soft and the onion turns translucent. This mixture releases aromatic flavors that infuse the entire dish, setting the scene for a delightful gourmet experience.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice into the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. It’s time to let these ingredients come to life, mingling together to create a vibrant sauce that serves as the heart of your beefaroni, providing both depth and richness.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Water
Introduce the elbow macaroni to the pot, followed by the 2 cups of water. Give everything a good stir. Cover the pot and let it come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta reaches the perfect tenderness, cut the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt and enrich the dish with its creamy texture and sharp taste. Serve the beefaroni hot, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired.
How to Serve One Pot Beefaroni
Serve this savory delight in bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of the cheesy sauce. You can pair it with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure the pasta is not overcooked by keeping an eye on it as it simmers. You might consider adding herbs like basil or oregano for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to add a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.
Packed with Protein: Beefaroni High-Protein Version
For an extra boost of protein in your meal, consider adding half a cup of cooked lentils or a can of chickpeas. These additions provide not only extra protein but also a delicious texture that complements the pasta and beef perfectly. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can replace or complement the cheese for a boost in vitamins and flavor.
Carb-Conscious and Flavorful: Low-Carb Beefaroni
Want to enjoy beefaroni without the heavy carbs? Swap out the elbow macaroni for cauliflower florets. This swap retains the comforting essence of beefaroni while keeping your meal light and aligned with low-carb dietary needs. Zucchini noodles can also serve as a fantastic pasta alternative, absorbing the rich tomato sauce beautifully.
Storage Instructions
Your beefaroni can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you plan to store it longer, consider freezing individual portions. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals or warm on the stovetop until heated through.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, beefaroni can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to eat. - What can I do if my beefaroni is too watery?
Allow the dish to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to let the excess water evaporate. - Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely, you can use any short pasta shapes like penne or rotini. - Can I freeze One Pot Beefaroni?
Yes, it can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. - Is this recipe customizable?
Yes, feel free to include other vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Wrapping Up and Sharing the Love for One Pot Beefaroni
This One Pot Beefaroni is not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making, filled with warmth, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or looking for a comforting dish for yourself, this recipe is sure to be a go-to. Share your experience in the comments below, or spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends. Let’s bring the world together, one delightful dish at a time!
One Pot Beefaroni Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- onion
- garlic
- green bell pepper
- tomato sauce
- diced tomatoes
- elbow macaroni
- water
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper, sauté until soft.
- Pour in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, and stir in seasoning and spices.
- Add macaroni and water, bring to a boil, then simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and serve hot.