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Beefaroni

Beefaroni: A Cozy, Budget-Friendly Family Favorite

Beefaroni is a nostalgic, budget-friendly dish that combines elbow macaroni with savory ground beef and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni can substitute with penne or rotini
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil can use neutral oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion can substitute with white onion
  • 2 cloves garlic adjust based on preference
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce can substitute with tomato passata
  • 1 cup beef broth can use chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper increase for more heat
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or create your own mix
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar balances acidity
For the Cheese and Garnish
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional but recommended
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beefaroni
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef, cooking until browned, about 6-8 minutes, then drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in tomato sauce and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Simmer on medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
  4. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
  6. Optional: Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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