Beefaroni
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A classic comfort food that combines pasta and ground beef in a delightful tomato sauce, Beefaroni is a dish loved by both kids and adults alike.
Beefaroni is a nostalgic dish that many remember fondly from their childhood. It's a hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction on busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
- Quick preparation and cooking time for busy weeknights
- Kids love the cheesy, meaty goodness
A Comforting Classic
Beefaroni has been a staple in many households for decades, cherished for its simplicity and delicious flavors. This dish combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with tender pasta, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a meal that evokes nostalgia, making it a favorite for family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.
The beauty of Beefaroni lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, adding vegetables or even different types of cheese to suit your family’s preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or as a comforting dish on a chilly evening, Beefaroni consistently delivers satisfaction.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. Beefaroni is an excellent solution, as it requires minimal preparation and can be ready in under 30 minutes. With just one skillet, clean-up is a breeze, making it a practical choice for busy families.
The straightforward cooking process allows even novice cooks to whip up this dish with ease. Simply brown the beef, mix in the ingredients, and let it simmer. This efficiency makes it not just a meal, but an opportunity to spend more quality time with your loved ones at the dinner table.
Kid-Approved Deliciousness
One of the standout features of Beefaroni is its appeal to children. The combination of cheesy, meaty goodness is often a hit with kids, making it an effortless way to get them excited about dinner. The familiar flavors and comforting textures create a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Parents appreciate that this meal is not only loved by the little ones but is also packed with protein and carbohydrates. This makes it a balanced option that can fuel their busy lives. Add a side of veggies or a simple salad, and you have a complete meal that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Beefaroni:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Beefaroni:
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Add Sauces and Seasoning
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Add Cheese and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot!
Enjoy your homemade Beefaroni with a side salad or garlic bread!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or enjoying for lunch the following day. When storing, allow the dish to cool before sealing it to maintain its freshness.
When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, and heat over low until warmed through. Enjoy your Beefaroni just as delicious the next day!
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with your Beefaroni! For a veggie-packed twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the cooking process. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish, making it even more wholesome.
If you're looking for a spicy kick, try incorporating some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce. For a gourmet touch, consider swapping the mozzarella for a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan. Each variation opens up a new world of flavors for you and your family to enjoy.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your Beefaroni meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing balance. Alternatively, garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
For beverage pairings, a light-bodied red wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can enhance the meal experience. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these pairings will surely impress your guests and make the meal memorable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like shells or penne.
→ Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some grated Parmesan cheese.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, Beefaroni can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Beefaroni
A classic comfort food that combines pasta and ground beef in a delightful tomato sauce, Beefaroni is a dish loved by both kids and adults alike.
Created by: Hannah Lewis
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the elbow macaroni and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g