Description
Comforting, nostalgic, and full of flavor — this beefaroni recipe is a homemade twist on a childhood classic.
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.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.Brown the meat:
Add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.Simmer the sauce:
Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.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.Serve warm with garlic bread or salad for a full comfort meal.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Want a creamy version? Stir in a spoonful of ricotta or heavy cream before serving.
- 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