Beefaroni

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Beefaroni is a comforting and nostalgic dish that combines pasta and beef in a delicious tomato sauce, perfect for a family meal.

Hallie Foster

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T13:56:51.870Z

Beefaroni has been a childhood favorite for many, evoking memories of cozy family dinners. This hearty meal is not just quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that kids and adults alike adore.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and satisfying, perfect for hungry bellies
  • Simple ingredients that can be found in any pantry
  • Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

A Comforting Family Favorite

Beefaroni is more than just a meal; it's a nostalgic dish that many of us grew up enjoying. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting experience that brings families together at the dinner table. Whether you're revisiting childhood memories or introducing this classic to your own family, Beefaroni never fails to delight.

This dish is versatile and can easily be modified to suit your family's preferences. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition factor without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, too, such as cheddar or a blend for an extra cheesy experience that kids will love.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

One of the best things about Beefaroni is how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for families with hectic schedules who still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.

The ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you can whip this up any time without a last-minute grocery run. Ground beef, canned tomatoes, and elbow macaroni are affordable and readily available, making this dish not only convenient but also budget-friendly.

Customizable and Delicious

The beauty of Beefaroni lies in its adaptability. While the traditional recipe is a hit on its own, you can easily customize it to include your favorite ingredients. Try adding cooked sausage for a different meat flavor or a dash of hot sauce for those who prefer a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, which means you can make this dish a new family favorite every time you prepare it.

Additionally, leftovers make for a fantastic lunch the next day. This dish reheats well, allowing the flavors to meld even further, resulting in a taste that is just as satisfying the next day. Whether served in a thermos for school or reheated at the office, Beefaroni is a practical choice that satisfies.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Make sure to have everything ready before cooking to enhance your experience.

Instructions

Start by preparing your cooking area and gathering your pots and pans.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.

Combine and Serve

Stir everything together and top with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let it melt for a few minutes before serving.

Once everything is combined, serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure that the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the Beefaroni. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Beefaroni pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing touch. For garlic bread, the buttery, toasted flavor complements the savory notes of the Beefaroni beautifully.

Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs or extra cheese on top before serving. A handful of chopped parsley or basil can elevate the presentation while adding a pop of color. A dash of grated parmesan can also enhance the flavor, making your Beefaroni a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use lean ground turkey instead of beef and add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

→ Can I make Beefaroni ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Beefaroni?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Beefaroni.

Beefaroni

Beefaroni is a comforting and nostalgic dish that combines pasta and beef in a delicious tomato sauce, perfect for a family meal.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Hallie Foster

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  3. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  4. 2 cups elbow macaroni
  5. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Step 03

In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.

Step 04

Stir everything together and top with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let it melt for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g