Classic Beefaroni: A Comforting Pasta Dish
Hearty pasta with seasoned beef and rich tomato sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (optional for texture)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Mix in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes to develop flavor.
Stir the cooked macaroni into the sauce until evenly coated.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream before adding the cheese.
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
