Amazing Beefaroni Recipe for Dinner in 30 Minutes

Name: Amazing Beefaroni Recipe for Dinner in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) ground beef (85/15 fat ratio); 2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz/425g) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

Posted on November 8, 2025

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The smell of tangy tomato sauce bubbling away, tender pasta cooking to perfection, and savory beef filling the kitchen—it’s the kind of comforting aroma that feels like a warm hug. Let me introduce you to a recipe near and dear to my heart: Amazing Beefaroni. This dish is a nostalgic favorite in our home and has become my go-to for busy weeknights when I need something fast, hearty, and satisfying.

I first stumbled upon beefaroni during a particularly hectic week. My pantry was looking sparse, and I needed a dinner idea that was quick, easy, and family-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, I whipped up this dish, and to my surprise, everyone loved it! Over time, I’ve perfected the recipe, adding little touches that make it truly irresistible. And now, I’m thrilled to share it with you.

This Amazing Beefaroni Recipe is everything you need in a dinner: it’s ready in about 30 minutes, uses ingredients you probably already have, and is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids or looking for some good old-fashioned comfort food for yourself, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: You can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients—you probably already have most of them on hand!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of this cheesy, tomatoey goodness. Trust me, even the picky eaters will ask for seconds!
Budget-Friendly: With affordable, common ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s just something about the combination of pasta, beef, and cheese that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.

Unlike boxed versions, this homemade beefaroni is made from scratch with real ingredients. It’s got that perfect balance of tangy tomato flavor, hearty beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily make it healthier, spicier, or even vegetarian!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef with an 85/15 fat ratio for a good balance of flavor and richness. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for beefaroni, but any short pasta like penne or rotini works well too.
Onion: Finely chopped for a sweet, savory base.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth and aroma.
Tomato Sauce: Use a good-quality canned tomato sauce for the best flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Choose fire-roasted for an extra layer of flavor, or plain if that’s what you have.
Tomato Paste: Adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavor and keeps the sauce from being too thick.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary gives the dish its signature flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To season the dish to perfection.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded and melted for that gooey, cheesy finish.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.

Optional ingredients include a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh parsley for garnish. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding your favorite spices or using gluten-free pasta to suit your needs.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need anything fancy to make this Amazing Beefaroni Recipe. Here’s what you should have on hand:

Large Skillet: For cooking the beef and sauce. A non-stick skillet works best to prevent sticking.
Medium Pot: To boil the pasta. A 4-5 quart pot will work perfectly.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the onion and garlic.
Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
Cheese Grater: For shredding the cheese if it’s not pre-shredded.

If you don’t have a skillet, a large saucepan will work, too. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold the sauce and pasta together at the end.

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (200g) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Cook the Ground Beef: Add 1 pound (450g) of ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in 1 can (15 oz/425g) of tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) of diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1/2 cup (120ml) of beef broth, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup (100g) of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Serve: Remove from heat, give it a final stir, and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Choose the Right Beef: Use ground beef with a bit of fat (like 85/15) for the best flavor. Too lean, and you might miss out on that rich taste.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it won’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Layer the Flavors: Sautéing the onions and garlic first creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Don’t skip this step!
Customize the Heat: If you like a little spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Make it Creamy: Want a creamier texture? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this Amazing Beefaroni Recipe is how versatile it can be. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat or crumbled tofu. Add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty twist.
Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your tomato products are certified gluten-free as well.
Cheese Upgrade: Try mixing cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.

One of my favorite versions is to add a handful of chopped olives and roasted red peppers to the mix—it adds a Mediterranean flair that’s absolutely delicious!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Amazing Beefaroni is best served warm, straight out of the skillet. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side. You can even sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy kick!

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion into the microwave or warm it up in a skillet with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.

Planning to make it ahead of time? This beefaroni freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Amazing Beefaroni Recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional benefits:

Protein-Packed: Thanks to the ground beef, this dish is a great source of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with real, simple ingredients that you can feel good about feeding your family.
Customizable for Dietary Needs: It’s easy to make this recipe gluten-free, low-carb, or even vegetarian with simple swaps.

On average, a serving of this beefaroni provides around 400-450 calories, depending on your exact ingredients, making it a balanced and hearty option for dinner.

Conclusion

This Amazing Beefaroni Recipe for Dinner is everything you could want in a meal—quick, easy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re serving it to your family on a hectic weeknight or whipping it up for a casual get-together with friends. The best part? You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your variations or special twists on this classic comfort dish. Don’t forget to share your photos and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for beefaroni?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even shells. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Beefaroni is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Reheat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options, and use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories and fat.

4. What can I serve with beefaroni?

Pair it with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the dish beautifully.

5. Can I make beefaroni vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat, lentils, or mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for extra flavor and nutrition.

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