Beefaroni

This homemade Beefaroni recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining ground beef and macaroni in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish stands out with its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a hearty dish to impress guests, this Beefaroni is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is perfect for picky eaters, making it an excellent choice for families.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Beefaroni by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: The rich cheddar cheese takes this dish to the next level of deliciousness.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back nostalgic memories of childhood meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Beefaroni recipe smoothly, having the right tools will help you achieve the best results in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Large pot
• Mixing spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing the onions, allowing for even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Ensures you have the right amounts of ingredients for a balanced flavor.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta to perfection without crowding.

Ingredients

This homemade Beefaroni recipe has ground beef and macaroni in the most delicious sauce with a hint of tomato, seasonings, and cheese!

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– Salt/Pepper
– ½ cup yellow onion (diced)
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 tablespoon flour
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cups cheddar cheese
– ½ lb. macaroni (equal to 2 cups)
– 1 ½ cups beef broth
– 8 oz. tomato sauce
– ½ cup half and half
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
– 1 teaspoon ketchup
– ½ beef bouillon cube (see notes)
– ¾ teaspoon EACH: Dried oregano, basil, parsley

How to Make Beefaroni

Step 1: Prepare Sauce Ingredients

Combine sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure remaining ingredients before beginning.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

Season the ground beef with salt/pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook and crumble for about three minutes, then add the onions. Sauté until cooked through, around five to six minutes. Drain grease and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Boil Pasta

Begin boiling a pot of water for the pasta. Add half a tablespoon of salt once it reaches a boil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Meanwhile, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, flour, and tomato paste; stir to combine and cook for one to two minutes.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Mixture

Add the sauce mixture from Step 1 in small splashes while stirring continuously. Do this slowly to ensure that the roux doesn’t break and remains thick.

Step 6: Simmer Sauce

Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Simmer uncovered while boiling pasta until al dente; stir occasionally as it cooks. Drain once cooked.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Gradually sprinkle cheese into the sauce while stirring continuously. You can save some cheese to melt on top at the end if desired.

Step 8: Mix Everything Together

Add back in your ground beef/onions mixture into the sauce and stir well to combine. Stir in cooked macaroni.

Step 9: Serve

If desired, sprinkle with remaining cheese; close lid briefly to allow it to melt before serving!

How to Serve Beefaroni

Beefaroni is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving it on a cozy night in or as a quick dinner for guests, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Pairing Beefaroni with warm garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and flavor. It’s perfect for dipping into the cheesy sauce.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your Beefaroni with fresh parsley or basil brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Served with Salad

• A side salad brings freshness to the meal. Consider a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette for a light complement.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Adding steamed broccoli or green beans provides a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of Beefaroni.

In a Bowl with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, serve Beefaroni in a bowl topped with even more cheddar cheese, melted to perfection for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Beefaroni

Achieving the ultimate homemade Beefaroni requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your Beefaroni, making it taste richer and more satisfying.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your macaroni is cooked al dente for the perfect texture that holds up well in the sauce.

• Balance Seasonings: Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your taste preferences. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference.

• Let it Rest: Allowing your Beefaroni to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese like mozzarella or parmesan can create new flavor profiles you may enjoy.

Best Side Dishes for Beefaroni

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with Beefaroni.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing brings crunch and zest to balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a savory contrast to the creamy Beefaroni while adding nutritional value.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers freshness and crunch that complements the hearty dish nicely.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with Beefaroni’s flavors, adding sweetness and texture.
6. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: This dish keeps in line with the cheesy theme while incorporating healthy greens into your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beefaroni can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for. Avoiding these can elevate your dish.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or sauce can make your Beefaroni soupy. Measure liquids carefully for the perfect consistency.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking macaroni past al dente will result in mushy pasta. Follow package instructions and check for doneness before draining.
• Not seasoning enough: A lack of seasoning can leave your Beefaroni bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference.
• Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds richness and flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, choose a good quality cheddar for the best results.
• Neglecting to stir: Failing to stir the sauce while it simmers can lead to burning or sticking. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Beefaroni to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Beefaroni

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Beefaroni

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about making Beefaroni.

How do I make Beefaroni from scratch?

To make Beefaroni from scratch, cook ground beef with onions and garlic, create a flavorful sauce with tomato paste and broth, then combine it with macaroni and cheese.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like shells or penne.

What can I add for extra flavor in my Beefaroni?

Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spicy sausage for a different take on this classic dish.

How do I store leftover Beefaroni?

Store leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Beefaroni recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch!