There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of beefaroni recipe. Perhaps it’s the tender pasta, the savory meat sauce, or simply the nostalgic memories it evokes. Consequently, I’m thrilled to share my version of this beloved classic that has been perfected over many years in my kitchen. This homemade beefaroni recipe certainly elevates the canned version we all remember from childhood, yet it maintains that familiar, comforting taste we crave. Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile and family-friendly, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Table of Content

Beefaroni Recipe

Why I Love This Beefaroni Recipe

Initially, I was skeptical about creating a homemade version of this classic. However, after numerous attempts to capture that nostalgic flavor, I’ve developed a recipe that not only reminds me of my childhood favorite but actually surpasses it in every way. Additionally, this beefaroni recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and quick. Most importantly, my children absolutely devour it, which is always the ultimate test of any family recipe. Undoubtedly, watching them enjoy something I’ve made from scratch brings me immense joy.

Ingredient Key

  • Ground Beef: The foundation of our dish, providing rich flavor and protein. Therefore, I recommend using 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor.
  • Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice for beefaroni, perfectly shaped to hold the sauce.
  • Tomato Sauce & Paste: Creates that signature tangy base. Consequently, using both provides depth and richness.
  • Onions & Garlic: Aromatics that build the flavor foundation. As a result, don’t be tempted to skip this step!
  • Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs that ties everything together.
  • Beef Broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
  • Cheddar Cheese: For that creamy, melty texture that makes this dish irresistible.
  • Worcester Sauce: The secret ingredient that adds umami depth. Subsequently, it really makes a difference!
  • Sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep Work: First of all, dice your onion and mince your garlic. Then, measure out all remaining ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
  2. Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes or according to package directions. Subsequently, drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Moreover, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Afterward, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
  4. Build the Sauce: After the beef is browned, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Furthermore, stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to develop the flavors. Then, pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcester sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. In addition, this is a good time to taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  6. Combine: Finally, add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring well to combine. Consequently, the pasta will absorb some of the sauce, enhancing its flavor.
  7. Add Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in half the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Subsequently, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover until melted, about 2 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Beefaroni Recipe

  • Pasta Doneness: Cook the pasta just shy of al dente since it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce. Otherwise, you might end up with mushy pasta.
  • Cheese Selection: While cheddar is traditional, you can nevertheless experiment with different cheeses. For instance, a combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a wonderful stretchy texture.
  • Seasoning Balance: The small amount of sugar might seem unusual, but it’s essential for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. However, you can adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • Make It Ahead: Surprisingly, this dish often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop further.

Storage Information

This beefaroni keeps beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. After cooling completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Furthermore, it freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave with a splash of water or beef broth to maintain moisture, or reheat in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat. Consequently, you’ll always have a comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Nutrition Information

A serving of this homemade beefaroni (approximately 1 cup) contains about:

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 23g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sodium: 580mg

Nevertheless, you can reduce the sodium by using low-sodium broth and tomato products. Additionally, using lean ground beef or substituting ground turkey can lower the fat content.

Another Recipes You’ll Love

In conclusion, this homemade beefaroni recipe transforms a simple childhood favorite into a satisfying, flavorful meal that the whole family will enjoy. Above all, it preserves the nostalgic appeal while elevating the flavors with quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Additionally, its versatility means you can easily adjust it to suit your family’s preferences. Hence, the next time you’re craving comfort food with a touch of nostalgia, give this recipe a try instead of reaching for the canned version. Consequently, I believe it will become a new family favorite in your household just as it has in mine.

How to Make the Perfect Beefaroni Recipe
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How to Make the Perfect Beefaroni Recipe

Auteur/autrice : [email protected]
Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 30 minutesCook time: 40 minutesTotal time:1 heure 50 minutesServings:4 servingsCalories:300 kcal

Description

This homemade beefaroni is a family-friendly comfort food classic that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Made with perfectly seasoned ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a nostalgic dish that’s far superior to anything that comes from a can.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions (usually 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop flavors.
  6. Add tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcester sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  8. Add the cooked macaroni to the meat sauce and stir well to combine.
  9. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until melted and incorporated.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese on top, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 2 minutes until cheese is melted.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes when adding the other seasonings.
    This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
    Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
    For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Mots-clés :Beefaroni Recipe, Beefaroni