This comforting homemade Beefaroni is a tasty mix of tender pasta and savory beef in a delicious tomato sauce. It feels just like a warm hug on a plate!
To be honest, this dish is so easy to whip up that even a busy night can’t stop me from enjoying it. I often sneak in some extra cheese because, well, cheese makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor and easy preparation. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work well too. They’re leaner, making the dish a bit lighter.
Onion: A medium onion adds wonderful sweetness. If you’re short on onions, shallots can be a tasty substitute, or you might even try leeks for something different!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best because it brings a punch of flavor. However, if you don’t have any, garlic powder is a decent substitute; just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: These give the dish its tomato base. You can swap in crushed tomatoes or even marinara sauce if that’s what you have on hand. Just note that this might alter the texture a bit.
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and depth. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great alternative. I also like using low-sodium broth to control salt content.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs gives the dish its Italian flair. You can mix your own using basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have a pre-made mix.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in a Skillet Dish?
Cooking pasta directly in a skillet dish is a fantastic time-saver! The trick is to keep an eye on it as it cooks to ensure it’s just right. Here’s how:
- After adding the elbow macaroni, stir it well to combine and prevent it from sticking.
- Cover the skillet to lock in steam, which helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Check the pasta at the 10-minute mark. If it’s still firm, give it a few more minutes. Stir occasionally to keep things moving!
- Once the pasta is al dente, remove it from the heat. The pasta will continue to cook a little even after you turn off the stove, so aim for slightly firm pasta.
The Best Homemade Beefaroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade Beefaroni recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 30-35 minutes—perfect for a hearty, quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the finely diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This will give a nice flavor base for your Beefaroni.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Break the beef apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish light and flavorful.
3. Mix in the Sauces and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add in some flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this tasty mixture to a simmer for about a minute.
4. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Add the elbow macaroni into the skillet and stir everything together to mix well. Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. You’ll want the pasta to be cooked al dente—just tender enough to bite into!
5. Final Touches:
Once your pasta is cooked, give it a taste! If it needs a little extra seasoning, feel free to adjust with more salt or pepper. The flavors should be rich and inviting!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your homemade Beefaroni is ready to be served! Dish it out while it’s hot, and sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It will result in a lighter dish, but be sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor. Follow the recipe as is, and enjoy a healthier twist on Beefaroni!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable broth. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider using a mixture of water and soy sauce to mimic the saltiness and depth of beef broth. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a plant-based protein like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the Worcestershire sauce, or choose a vegan version since regular Worcestershire sauce often contains anchovies.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just microwave in short intervals, stirring often, or warm on the stovetop over low heat while adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen up the sauce.
