Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

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Beefaroni Recipes: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights

When you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and always a hit, Beefaroni is a classic choice. This hearty dish has been a family favorite in my home for years, often made when we needed something quick, filling, and comforting after a long day. The combination of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and savory tomato sauce makes for the ultimate comfort food.

I remember the first time I tried Beefaroni as a child—it was one of those dishes that my mom made for dinner when she didn’t have much time but still wanted to put something delicious on the table. The rich, tomatoey flavor with bits of beef mixed with pasta instantly became a staple in our weekly meal rotation.

Beefaroni is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply craving some nostalgia, this dish hits the spot. In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of making Beefaroni from scratch, share a few variations to try, and offer tips for making it your own. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

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Health Benefits of Beefaroni

While Beefaroni is not necessarily a dish you’d call “health food,” it does offer a good balance of nutrients when prepared with lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables. Ground beef is a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and zinc, which are important for muscle health and immune function. The pasta provides carbs for energy, and the tomato sauce adds some antioxidants in the form of lycopene, which can help protect against free radicals and support heart health.

By making Beefaroni at home, you can control the quality of ingredients and adjust the recipe to fit your dietary preferences, ensuring a balanced meal that satisfies the whole family.

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Beefaroni Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the tomato sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, along with the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Combine pasta and beef mixture: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cooked pasta, mixing until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
6. Cheese it up (optional): If using, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring to combine.
7. Serve: Serve the Beefaroni hot with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top if desired.

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Cooking Tips and Variations

Beefaroni is an incredibly versatile dish, and you can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for how to make this recipe your own:

• Gluten-Free: Swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many gluten-free pasta brands now offer elbow macaroni or similar shapes.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.
• Add Veggies: To sneak in more vegetables, consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce. These will add both flavor and nutrients.
• Different Meat Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground beef can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian option.

For a more indulgent twist, try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella on top and broiling the dish for a few minutes to get a cheesy, crispy topping!

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Vitamin A: 10%
• Vitamin C: 12%
• Calcium: 15%
• Iron: 20%

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Storage Instructions

Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or heat it on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to keep it moist.

If you want to store it for a longer period, Beefaroni freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Recipe Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix up your Beefaroni routine, here are a few variations and substitutions to try:

• Spicy Beefaroni: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Beefaroni: For extra cheesiness, layer the Beefaroni with more shredded mozzarella before baking.
• Beefaroni Casserole: Top the Beefaroni with a mix of breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.
• Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based ground beef substitute, and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese for a completely dairy-free, plant-based version.

This dish is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own!

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Tips for Buying and Preparing Ground Beef for Beefaroni

When selecting ground beef for Beefaroni, opt for lean ground beef (at least 85% lean) to keep the dish less greasy. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.

As for preparing the beef, ensure you cook it until browned all over and crumble it into small bits. This ensures the meat absorbs the flavors of the sauce and mixes well with the pasta.

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Serving Suggestions

Beefaroni is delicious on its own, but you can take your meal to the next level with these side dish ideas:

• Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the Beefaroni.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for the perfect combination of carbs and flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or green beans make a wonderful vegetable side that complements the beefy pasta.

For drinks, a glass of red wine or iced tea pairs nicely with this hearty meal.

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FAQs About Beefaroni

Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?

Yes! Beefaroni can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Can I freeze Beefaroni?

Absolutely! Beefaroni freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini.

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Final Bite

Beefaroni is the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite. I hope this recipe becomes as beloved in your home as it is in mine. Don’t forget to share your Beefaroni creations with me—feel free to leave a comment below, or tag me on social media!

Happy cooking!