Description
Relive the warmth of home with this comforting Beefaroni recipe! A hearty blend of ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce comes together in a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, this classic comfort food will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 lb (2 cups) macaroni
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- 1/2 beef bouillon cube, crumbled
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 3/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce Base
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Mix in the tomato paste until blended.
- Add Liquid Ingredients
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth to avoid lumps.
- Stir in tomato sauce, half and half, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, and crumbled bouillon cube. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season the Sauce
- Add dried oregano, basil, and parsley. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce.
- Add the cooked macaroni and stir until well coated.
- Finish with Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the Beefaroni is creamy and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional cheddar cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Consistency Adjustments: For a thinner sauce, add a splash of beef broth. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Add-Ins: Enhance with chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American