Beefaroni Recipe | Easy and Hearty Comfort Food

Name: Beefaroni Recipe | Easy and Hearty Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups water; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Beefaroni recipe is the ultimate blend of savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread for a comforting experience everyone will love.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-02T13:46:05.974Z

Beefaroni has been a favorite in households for generations. The combination of pasta and beef in a delicious tomato sauce is not just comforting; it's a meal that brings families together.

A Classic Comfort Food

Beefaroni has long been a favorite meal for families looking for a quick yet filling dinner. This dish combines the comforting aspects of pasta with the heartiness of beef, making it a true classic. Each bite is rich and satisfying, drawing you in for more. With its roots in canned food tradition, this homemade version elevates the flavors while keeping the essence of nostalgia intact, making it perfect for both young and old alike.

The delightful combination of tender elbow macaroni and seasoned ground beef creates a unique texture that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant tomato sauce. This dish seamlessly marries flavors and comfort, creating a meal that warms the heart, especially during colder months. Beefaroni can be a show-stopper at family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Its straightforward preparation means you can whip it up in no time, keeping everyone happy and well-fed.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

If you find yourself strapped for time after a long day, this Beefaroni recipe is your ideal solution. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The versatility of this dish means you can easily adjust it to your family's tastes by adding vegetables or spices, making it even more appealing and nutritious.

Moreover, the one-pan nature of this recipe means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a bonus. Simply brown the beef, add the sauce, and let it simmer with the pasta. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on other tasks or enjoy some quality time with your family while dinner cooks itself. It's a win-win for busy households.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Beefaroni is delicious on its own, there are many ways to elevate the dish further. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for that melty, gooey texture that everyone loves. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan can enhance the flavor profile beautifully. Additionally, serving it with a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables can balance the meal, providing an added boost of nutrition and color.

If you’re looking to mix things up, try adding different proteins or vegetables to the mix. Cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even a medley of bell peppers and spinach can transform this classic dish into a new favorite. These variations not only cater to different tastes but also make it easy to incorporate your preferred ingredients, ensuring that family meals are both exciting and enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Beefaroni

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups water
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Sauce and Pasta

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and water. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni, reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with garlic bread!

Enjoy your hearty and delicious homemade Beefaroni!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Beefaroni is a fantastic meal prep option, as it stores well and tastes just as good reheated the next day. To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for lunch or an easy dinner later in the week.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or additional sauce to help revive the flavor and moisture. Enjoy this hearty meal again without the hassle of cooking from scratch!

Nutrition Insights

While Beefaroni is a comfort food at its core, it can also offer nutritional benefits. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron, while the tomato sauce delivers essential vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and lycopene. This makes Beefaroni not only a filling meal but also a functional one if prepared with care regarding portion sizes and added ingredients.

For a healthier twist, consider using lean ground meat or turkey instead of regular ground beef. You can also choose whole grain pasta or add in vegetables to enhance the fiber content. These modifications allow you to enjoy your favorite dish with added nutritional benefits, making it a smart choice for families.

FAQs About Beefaroni

One common question about Beefaroni is whether the dish can be frozen for later use. The answer is yes! This dish freezes well, allowing for future convenience. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container, and it can last in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Another frequent inquiry is about customizing the recipe. Feel free to experiment with seasonings or additional ingredients such as chili powder for a kick, or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor depth. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and allows for creativity, making it a staple that never grows old.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead and combine with pasta when ready to serve.