Beefaroni is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This classic recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Start by browning the beef in a skillet, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let the mixture simmer. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni until al dente. Once the beef mixture has simmered and the flavors have melded, combine it with the cooked macaroni. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and let it melt. Serve hot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Beefaroni is a classic comfort food that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, savory tomatoes, and hearty pasta. This dish is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. With its cheesy topping and flavorful ingredients, Beefaroni is sure to become a staple in your home. Let's dive into the ingredients needed to make this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need to make Beefaroni:
- 1 lb ground beef: The base of this dish, providing a rich and meaty flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of pungency.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Brings a fresh, tangy taste to the sauce.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth and rich sauce for the pasta.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbal flavor that complements the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The pasta of choice for this recipe, known for its ability to hold the sauce well.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top, adding a cheesy finish to the Beefaroni.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and comforting Beefaroni that the whole family will love. In the next section, we’ll go through the detailed instructions on how to prepare this dish.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and comforting Beefaroni that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat. Use a spoon to break apart the meat as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
- Once the beef is browned, add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Stir in 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes and 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce. Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- While the beef mixture is simmering, cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5: Combine and Melt Cheese
- Once the beef mixture has simmered and thickened, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir until well combined and the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the Beefaroni. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the Beefaroni hot, straight from the skillet. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated.
With these instructions, you’ll have a delicious and hearty Beefaroni ready to enjoy. In the next section, we’ll cover some serving and storage tips, as well as helpful notes and variations to enhance your cooking experience.
Serving and Storage Tips
Beefaroni is a versatile dish that’s perfect for serving immediately or saving for later. Here are some tips on how to best serve and store your Beefaroni, ensuring it remains delicious and satisfying.
- Serving: Serve Beefaroni hot, straight from the skillet. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread, making for a complete and hearty meal. For added flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley over the top before serving.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the Beefaroni to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to reheat and enjoy later.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the Beefaroni in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Beefaroni and make it your own:
- Alternative Meats: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Add some extra nutrition by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
As Ina Garten might say, "How easy is that?" Enjoy making and sharing this Beefaroni recipe with your family and friends. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home, thanks to its rich flavors and comforting qualities.
Summary
Beefaroni is a simple and delicious meal that combines ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick and hearty dinner that the whole family will love. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights.