Beefaroni is the quintessential comfort food that never fails to deliver. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor—everything you want in a dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or prepping a big batch for a gathering, this dish is an absolute winner. Let’s dive into how to make Beefaroni from scratch and why this recipe should be your next go-to meal.
Pair Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce with Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese Family Size for the ultimate comfort dinner. Crispy chicken, creamy Alfredo, and cheesy mac make for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
What is Beefaroni?
You’ve probably heard of Beefaroni, but what makes it irresistible? It combines cooked pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. The beauty of Beefaroni lies in its simplicity—this dish is packed with layers of flavor while remaining quick and easy to prepare. It’s one of those meals that feel like a hug in a bowl.
Beefaroni is often considered a version of baked ziti or baked macaroni and cheese, but this dish is typically not baked. It’s cooked on the stovetop, giving you a cozy, comforting meal in less than an hour. Plus, it’s totally customizable to fit your tastes and dietary needs.
How to Make Beefaroni: Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta you prefer)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: First, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté them until softened, about 3 minutes. This will bring out the onions’ sweetness and the garlic’s aromatic flavor.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste. Add the Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), red pepper flakes, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. The cheese will add a creamy texture and rich flavor that comforts Beefaroni.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is mixed and the cheese is melted, your Beefaroni is ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates, and sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for an extra touch. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for the ultimate meal.
Beefaroni: The Versatile Comfort Food
One of the best things about Beefaroni is how versatile it is. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, swap in any short pasta, like penne, rigatoni, or shells. The texture of the pasta might change, but the dish will still taste just as good.
Another great thing is that Beefaroni works well with different types of meat. While ground beef is the classic choice, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Swap the beef for your favorite meat substitutes, such as lentils or tofu, for a vegetarian twist. The sauce is hearty and flavorful enough to shine through regardless of what’s in the pan.
Why Beefaroni is a Kid-Friendly Meal
Let’s face it, kids can be picky eaters. But Beefaroni is one of those meals that gets a thumbs-up from even the most finicky kids. The cheesy pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce make it a complete dish that kids look forward to eating. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, which is a massive win for busy parents. If you’re having trouble getting your little ones to eat their veggies, this dish is an excellent opportunity to sneak in some chopped spinach or finely grated carrots without them noticing.
Beefaroni for Busy Weeknights
When cooking for the family, sometimes you need a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. Beefaroni fits the bill perfectly. With just a handful of ingredients and a short prep time, this dish is a weeknight hero. You can have a hearty, comforting dinner in less than an hour—perfect for those days when you juggle work, school, and life. And the best part? It’s all cooked in one pot, meaning fewer dishes to clean up after dinner. Now that’s something to smile about!
Beefaroni vs. Traditional Baked Ziti: Which One Should You Choose?
Beefaroni and baked ziti might seem like two peas in a pod, but they differ. While both dishes feature pasta, sauce, and cheese, the main difference lies in the preparation method. Baked ziti is typically prepared by layering the pasta with sauce and cheese in a baking dish and then baking it until golden and bubbly. On the other hand, Beefaroni is made directly on the stovetop, combining the pasta and sauce in one pan. This means Beefaroni is quicker to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal in a pinch.
FAQs About Beefaroni
- Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beefaroni is a great make-ahead meal. You can cook the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove, adding extra broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Can I use other types of cheese for Beefaroni?
For sure! While mozzarella and Parmesan are the classic cheeses in Beefaroni, you can switch things up. Add cheddar for a sharper flavor or even some ricotta for extra creaminess. The great thing about Beefaroni is that you can customize it to suit your cheese preferences.
- How can I make Beefaroni spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch. Just taste as you go so it doesn’t become too spicy.
- Can I make Beefaroni without meat?
Yes! To make a vegetarian or vegan Beefaroni, omit the ground beef and use a plant-based substitute like lentils, mushrooms, or vegan meat crumbles. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- What are some side dishes to serve with Beefaroni?
Beefaroni is already filling on its own, but if you want to make the meal even more hearty, serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A side of steamed spinach or roasted carrots also pairs nicely with the rich, savory flavors of Beefaroni.
Why Beefaroni is Perfect for Families
Family meals can be tricky. You want something that’s not only quick and easy but also something that everyone will love. Beefaroni is one of those dishes that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The cheesy, saucy pasta is comforting and familiar, making it a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. It’s a meal that will leave everyone full and happy and won’t break the bank.
Beefaroni as a Meal Prep Champion
Beefaroni is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually get better the longer it sits, so you’re in for an even tastier meal the next day. If you’re short on time during the week, pop the Beefaroni in the microwave, and you’re ready to go!
Beefaroni Variations to Try
- Baked Beefaroni: After mixing the pasta with the sauce and cheese, transfer it to a baking dish, top it with extra cheese, and bake it at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Beefaroni with Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra vegetables? Add finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce to give it a nutritional boost without anyone noticing.
- Beefaroni with Sausage: Add cooked Italian sausage along with the ground beef for a meatier version. The sausage will add a savory, spiced flavor that’s irresistible.
- Spicy Beefaroni: Mix the heat with diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra red pepper flakes. This version is perfect for those who like a little extra kick in their meal.
Final Thoughts
Beefaroni is the ultimate comfort food you can whip up in no time and customize to your heart’s content. Whether you keep it classic or mix it with veggies, different cheeses, or extra spice, this dish will become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a plate of Beefaroni bursting with flavor!
