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A plated beefaroni dish with garlic bread and a salad.

Beefaroni Recipe

  • Author: Joy’s Kitchen
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This hearty and comforting Beefaroni recipe is a classic favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd. Tender macaroni is combined with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese to create a delicious, kid-friendly meal that’s ready in under an hour. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, this dish is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean or extra lean)
  • 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the Macaroni:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Beef:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Sauté Aromatics:
    Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Prepare the Sauce:
    Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with dried basil, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Combine with Pasta:
    Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the sauce and beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
  • Add Cheese:
    Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before adding the cheese.
  • Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter version.
  • This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Baking (optional)
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 365
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: beefaroni, easy pasta dish, comfort food, kid-friendly dinner

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Find it online: https://archiverecipes.com/beefaroni-recipe/