This Beefaroni balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Beefaroni captures the essence of meals|beef & lamb while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Beefaroni becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound lean ground beef
½ onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
28 ounces tomato sauce
PREPARATION STEPS
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onions together over medium heat, breaking up the beef until it’s fully cooked and the onions are soft.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
Pour in the tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld the flavors together.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce.
Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce and evenly mixed with the beef.
Serve the Beefaroni immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 65 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.