Beefaroni Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food for Every Occasion

Few dishes evoke childhood memories like a rich and comforting Beefaroni Recipe. Whether you remember opening a can of Chef Boyardee or savoring a homemade version, this hearty meal delivers that nostalgic taste of home with every bite. At Dulce Recipes, we’re all about transforming simple ingredients into unforgettable meals, and this beefaroni is no exception.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make a delicious, homemade Beefaroni Recipe from scratch—complete with tips, variations, and side dishes that will turn any dinner into a family favorite.

Discover more delicious recipes and ideas by visiting our homepage!

What is Beefaroni and Why Is It So Popular?

Beefaroni is a classic American comfort food made with elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a tangy tomato sauce. It became a household staple thanks to brands like Chef Boyardee, but homemade versions are richer, fresher, and far more satisfying.

Is Beefaroni the Same as Goulash?

Not exactly. While both dishes include ground beef and pasta, goulash usually includes paprika and bell peppers, making it spicier and more robust. The Beefaroni Recipe keeps it simple and kid-friendly with a smooth tomato base.

Best Ingredients for a Homemade Beefaroni Recipe

The magic of a great Beefaroni Recipe lies in its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lean Ground Beef (90/10) – For a hearty but not greasy base.
• Macaroni Pasta – Elbows are traditional, but penne or rigatoni work too.
• Tomato Sauce – Go for quality canned or homemade.
• Onions & Garlic – Fresh aromatics add depth.
• Cheddar Cheese (optional) – For a cheesy twist.
• Italian Seasoning – A perfect herb blend for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Beefaroni Recipe

📝 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Base
   In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onions and garlic for 2–3 minutes.
3. Brown the Meat
   Add the ground beef. Cook until browned and drain excess fat.
4. Simmer the Sauce
   Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Mix and Melt
   Add the cooked pasta and stir well. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, if using.

What Can You Eat with Beefaroni?

This Beefaroni Recipe is filling on its own, but sides can round out your meal beautifully.

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up sauce.
• Fresh Salad – Try our Green Garden Salad for a crisp contrast.
• Steamed Veggies – Broccoli, carrots, or peas add color and nutrition.

Want more kid-approved sides? Check out Dinners for Picky Eaters for tasty options.

Is Beefaroni Healthy?

When made from scratch, this Beefaroni Recipe can be both wholesome and satisfying:

• Calories: 350–450 per serving
• Protein: 20–25g
• Fiber: Increase with whole wheat pasta
• Fat: 10–15g depending on meat and cheese

Swap ground beef with turkey or plant-based options for a lighter version. Use low-sodium sauce and add veggies for extra nutrition.

Looking for more balanced meals? Explore our Healthy Weeknight Dinners guide.

Variations: Make This Beefaroni Recipe Your Own

• Cheesy Baked Beefaroni – Layer in mozzarella and bake until golden.
• Spicy Beefaroni – Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Creamy Beefaroni – Mix in ricotta or heavy cream for a smooth texture.

Fun Fact: In some regions, it’s also called Sloppy Joe Pasta or American Chop Suey.

FAQs About Beefaroni

Beefaroni Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food for Every Occasion

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• Author: Camila
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Comforting, nostalgic, and full of flavor — this beefaroni recipe is a homemade twist on a childhood classic.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

 

• 2 cups macaroni pasta (elbow or penne)

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)

• 2 cups tomato sauce (smooth, high-quality)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

 

 

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.

3. Brown the meat:
   Add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

4. Simmer the sauce:
   Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

5. Combine everything:
   Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat with the sauce. If using, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted.

6. Serve warm with garlic bread or salad for a full comfort meal.

Notes

1. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
2. Want a creamy version? Stir in a spoonful of ricotta or heavy cream before serving.
3. Make it vegetable-packed by tossing in spinach, peas, or mushrooms.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: ~400
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~500mg
• Fat: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Protein: ~24g

Conclusion

There’s no denying it—this Beefaroni Recipe is the definition of comfort food. Whether you serve it bubbling with cheese or keep it classic with tomato sauce and macaroni, it’s a dependable favorite that’s easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable.

So next time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, skip the can and head to the kitchen. With this guide from Dulce Recipes, you’ll be making the best homemade Beefaroni Recipe your family will request again and again.

Love this Beefaroni Recipe? Discover even more delicious ideas!
If you enjoyed making this hearty dish, you’ll love exploring more comforting meals on Dulce Recipes. Try our easy and healthy Ground Turkey Pasta Recipes, savor slow-cooked flavors with our Ground Beef Crockpot Recipes, or whip up a quick and tasty Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe.
And if you’re craving more pasta perfection, don’t miss our classic Beefaroni Recipe guide!