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Beefaroni

Beefaroni
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Beefaroni is a quick, comforting, and hearty pasta dish featuring tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, all combined with melting cheese and seasoned with herbs and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot recipe balances taste, comfort, and ease, making it a family-friendly favorite that’s budget-conscious and versatile.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)

Liquids & Sauces

  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth or water

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese

Herbs & Spices

  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook until fragrant and the onion is translucent, enhancing the sauce’s depth and flavor.
  3. Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce along with beef broth or water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to let the flavors meld.
  4. Cook the Pasta in the Sauce: Add elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and absorbs some sauce flavor, about 10-12 minutes.
  5. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat and mix in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste to complete the creamy, comforting dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic and herbs to maximize flavor intensity.
  • Cook pasta until just tender to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
  • Season each stage of cooking to build deep, complex flavors.
  • Choose high-quality cheese for better meltability and taste.
  • Simmer gently to prevent the sauce from scorching or separating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Beefaroni, ground beef pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, one-pot pasta, beef and macaroni recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/beefaroni/