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Are you in the mood for a cheesy, saucy comfort dish that’s ideal for a busy weeknight? Look no further than this delightful beefaroni! Each macaroni piece captures the rich, meaty, and garlicky sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Simple to make and loved by even the pickiest eaters, this is one dinner recipe you won’t want to overlook.
You’re going to adore this beefaroni so much that I’ll also suggest some similar dishes for your next meal: cheeseburger casserole, taco spaghetti, and American goulash! All of these are hearty pasta meals packed with meat and cheese that are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Quick 30-Minute Beefaroni
If you’re searching for a fast and straightforward dinner option that everyone will enjoy, this beefaroni recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to prepare—cheesy, meaty—and ready in just 30 minutes. What more could you ask for?
This beefaroni has received rave reviews from my family; even my youngest couldn’t get enough of it! Once you try it yourself, you’ll see why it’s destined to become a staple in your weekly meal plan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to whip up homemade beefaroni. The best part? These ingredients are simple and can be easily customized based on your preferences! For specific measurements, check out the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Elbow Macaroni: These classic pasta shapes hold onto sauce beautifully while baking up perfectly cheesy.
- Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 85/15 or leaner cuts to keep things light while still delivering rich flavor.
- Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; finely mince it so every bite is flavorful.
- Garlic: A must-have ingredient! Fresh garlic works best but jarred can suffice as well.
- Paprika: This smoky spice adds warmth and depth to your sauce.
- Oregano: Earthy oregano brings an Italian touch that’s simply delightful.
- Salt & Pepper: Adjust according to taste!
- Canned Tomato Sauce: Choose high-quality tomato sauce for optimal flavor.
- Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts wonderfully while adding creamy richness—don’t skimp on it!
How To Prepare Beefaroni
In just 30 minutes total time—making it an excellent choice for hectic weeknights—you’ll have a delicious meal ready! This dish is not only easy but also consistently popular among kids (and adults alike!).
- Cook Pasta: Follow package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Brown Meat & Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef along with onions until browned thoroughly and onions turn translucent.
- Add Garlic & Seasonings: Stir in garlic until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Season with paprika, oregano, salt & pepper; mix well.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour tomato sauce into the skillet; sauté everything together for about 2–3 minutes before adding macaroni noodles. Mix thoroughly then cook another couple of minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat; top generously with shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Variations
Here are some ideas on how you can customize your beefaroni using ingredients already available at home:
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Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to swap elbow macaroni out for shells or bowtie pasta if desired!
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Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by incorporating veggies like bell peppers or zucchini—sauté them alongside garlic/onions.
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Creamier Texture: For added creaminess without extra effort stir in some sour cream!
Storing Leftover Beefaroni
Store any leftovers in an airtight container within the fridge where they’ll last up to five days! Reheat either in microwave or stovetop over medium heat when you’re ready—a perfect solution when craving something quick yet tasty!
Explore More Delicious Pasta Recipes:
Don’t forget about other fun pasta dishes waiting just around the corner!
Pin this recipe now so you’ll have it handy later!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving): Calories: 217 kcal | Carbohydrates: 29 g | Protein: 17 g | Fat: 4 g | Saturated Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 35 mg | Sodium: 818 mg | Potassium:605 mg | Fiber :3g| Sugar :5g| Vitamin A :697 IU| Vitamin C :9mg| Calcium :37mg| Iron :3mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on specific brands used or preparation methods employed.
About Alyssa Rivers
Alyssa Rivers is not only an accomplished food photographer but also author of ’The Tried-and-Tested Cookbook’ as well as an experienced recipe developer whose work has been featured across platforms such as Good Morning America , Today Food , Buzzfeed , among others .