Name: Quick and Comforting Beefaroni for a Cozy Night In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni (Can substitute with penne or rotini.); 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.); 1/2 Onion (Finely chopped; yellow or sweet onions recommended.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced; can substitute with garlic powder.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Omit if using only fresh garlic.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Can use dried oregano, basil, and thyme as substitutes.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 28 ounces Tomato Sauce (Crushed or diced tomatoes also work.)

The aroma of garlic and simmering tomato sauce wafting through the kitchen always brings back cherished memories of family dinners. In just 35 minutes, I can whip up a comforting bowl of Easy Beefaroni that combines tender ground beef with al dente elbow macaroni—a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe embraces those classic Italian flavors we all adore while offering the kind of hearty nourishment that warms the soul. It doesn’t just save time; it delivers satisfaction with delicious bites that make any evening feel special. Why settle for takeout when you can create this nostalgic dish at home? Ready to savor a taste of comforting, homemade goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Beefaroni a Family Favorite?

Quick Preparation: Get dinner on the table in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Comforting Taste: The hearty blend of ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender elbow macaroni creates a dish that is nothing short of nostalgic.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize your Beefaroni! Add veggies or swap in your favorite pasta shapes for a personalized touch.

Kid-Approved: This dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it a wonderful choice for family meals or gatherings.

Hearty Nutrition: Packed with protein and carbohydrates, it’s a well-rounded meal that nourishes both body and soul. Don’t forget to check out our meal planning tips for more ideas!

Beefaroni Ingredients

Dive into your pantry and get ready to whip up a delightful Beefaroni that embodies comfort and flavor!

For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – 8 ounces; the star of this dish that offers the perfect bite and texture—feel free to use penne or rotini as a substitute.

For the Meat Sauce
• Lean Ground Beef – 1 pound; delivers savory depth and protein; you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter touch.
• Onion – ½, finely chopped; enhances the flavor foundation—yellow or sweet onions are best, but shallots add a delightful twist.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; infuses the dish with aromatic goodness—substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re short on fresh garlic.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; intensifies the garlic flavor; omit if you’re only using fresh garlic.
• Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon; essential for authentic Italian taste; toss in some dried oregano, basil, and thyme if you’re missing this.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon; balances the flavors—adjust as needed to your taste.
• Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon; adds a subtle kick—feel free to spritz in more if you like it spicy!
• Tomato Sauce – 28 ounces; the luscious base for your Beefaroni, creating that signature comforting vibe—crushed or diced tomatoes work great too.

Now that you’re all set with the ingredients, let the cooking magic begin—your Beefaroni will soon become everyone’s favorite comfort dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beefaroni

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and then drain the pasta in a colander, setting it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and ½ finely chopped onion. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon until browned and the onions are softened and translucent, signaling they are done.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. This step infuses the meat mixture with rich flavor, enhancing your Beefaroni with aromatic goodness that fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spices begin to bloom, adding depth to the savory base of your Beefaroni.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in 28 ounces of tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering stage deepens the flavors, making the sauce richer and more robust for your Beefaroni.

Step 6: Combine Macaroni and Sauce
After simmering, drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the skillet with the beefy tomato sauce. Toss together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through. This step melds the ingredients harmoniously, transforming them into the comforting dish you’re eager to serve.

Step 7: Serve Your Beefaroni
Dish out warm portions of your delightful Beefaroni into bowls. You can add optional toppings like shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch. The creamy, hearty texture of your finished Beefaroni is ready to be enjoyed, making any weeknight feel special!

How to Store and Freeze Beefaroni

Fridge: Store leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for a quick meal anytime!

Freezer: If you want to enjoy Beefaroni later, freeze it in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s a great option for meal prep!

Reheating: To reheat, thaw if frozen, then microwave in 20-second increments until warmed through. Stir in a splash of water or broth if it appears dry.

Serving Suggestions: Reviving the flavors is easy! Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs right before serving for a delightful touch.

Beefaroni Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Beefaroni your own by trying out these fun variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Cheesy Blend: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before serving to create a gooey, cheesy delight that everyone will love.
Dairy-Free: Swap out traditional cheese for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives to maintain a creamy texture without dairy.
Whole Grain Pasta: Use whole grain elbow macaroni or any gluten-free pasta option to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying that comforting flavor.
Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an exciting heat that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Herb Forward: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness that elevates the classic flavors.
Canned Tomato Twist: Replace tomato sauce with crushed tomatoes or even a jar of your favorite marinara sauce for a different sauce experience.
Savory Add-in: Incorporate cooked sausage or bacon bits for a smoky, savory flavor that adds depth to your Beefaroni.

For more cooking inspiration, consider checking out our meal prep ideas or explore how to elevate your pasta dishes with our detailed sauce guide!

What to Serve with Easy 35-Minute Beefaroni

Pairing this comforting dish with complementary sides elevates your meal into a delightful dining experience full of warmth and flavor.

Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight adds a crunchy texture for scooping up your savory Beefaroni sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a crisp contrast, balancing the heartiness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli is a nutritious addition that brightens the plate and provides a pop of color, enhancing the classic Italian vibe of your dinner.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy, cheesy biscuits complement the rich beefy sauce, perfect for soaking up every drop and inviting smiles with their aroma.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of sweet bell peppers and zucchini adds vibrant color and extra flavor, rounding out your meal with a healthy twist that’s sure to please.
Chardonnay or Merlot: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a smooth Merlot pairs beautifully, allowing the pasta’s Italian flavors to shine even more brightly.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, providing a creamy dessert that contrasts perfectly with savory dishes like Beefaroni.

With these delightful pairings, your Beefaroni dinner transforms into a comforting feast that wraps you in cozy flavors and cherished moments.

Expert Tips for Beefaroni

Cook Pasta Right: Ensure you monitor the elbow macaroni while boiling; aiming for al dente will keep it firm and prevent mushiness in your Beefaroni.
Brown the Beef: Allow the ground beef to brown thoroughly to enhance flavor depth; a crumbly texture indicates perfect doneness.
Simmer for Flavor: Don’t rush the simmering stage; allowing the sauce to cook for 20 minutes will marry the flavors beautifully in your Beefaroni.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning levels based on your preference; a little extra salt or herbs can elevate the dish substantially.
Creamy Touch: For a richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese during the final cooking stages of your Beefaroni.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Beefaroni are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef and sauce mixture up to 3 days in advance by cooking and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this helps develop the flavors even further. Simply combine the cooked macaroni with the prepared sauce when you’re ready to serve. To maintain quality, refrigerate the components separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce. When it’s time to enjoy your Beefaroni, simply reheat the mixture on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, and enjoy a cozy, comforting meal with minimal effort!

Easy 35-Minute Beefaroni Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Beefaroni?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality lean ground beef that is bright red without any dark spots. Look for al dente pasta when cooking, which should be firm to the bite, and select tomato sauce that has no added sugars or preservatives for a fresher taste.

What is the best way to store leftover Beefaroni?
Very! You can store leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to the container to help preserve its texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Beefaroni for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled Beefaroni into a tightly sealed container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring to expel as much air as possible. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my Beefaroni is too dry?
No worries at all! If your Beefaroni appears dry, it’s likely due to overcooking or excess evaporation during the simmering phase. To remedy this, add a splash of water, broth, or even a little extra tomato sauce while reheating to bring back moisture and flavor. Stir well as it comes back up to temperature.

Is Beefaroni safe for kids and those with allergies?
Yes, indeed! Beefaroni can be a great family meal, but be mindful of common allergies. Substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, check your tomato sauce for any potential allergens, ensuring it’s suitable for everyone’s dietary needs.

How long does it take to reheat Beefaroni properly?
To reheat, simply microwave in intervals of 20 seconds until heated through, usually about 1-2 minutes if frozen. Stir in a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if it seems dry. This method ensures that the Beefaroni maintains its creamy texture upon serving!