Easy One-Pot Homemade Beefaroni
Introduction
Beefaroni is a nostalgic, hearty, family-friendly meal that blends tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce—all cooked together in one pot. This homemade version is fresher, more flavorful, and more wholesome than the canned classic, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes (optional but recommended)
2 cups beef broth (or water)
1 small onion, diced
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Onion & Garlic
Stir in diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season the Base
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir to coat the beef mixture.
4. Add Tomato Sauce, Tomatoes & Broth
Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), and beef broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add the Pasta
Add uncooked elbow macaroni. Mix well, ensuring pasta is submerged.
6. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender.
7. Finish with Cheese (Optional)
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Serve Hot
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm and enjoy!
Origin
Beefaroni entered popular American cuisine in the mid-20th century, largely due to mass-produced canned pasta meals marketed as quick and affordable comfort food. Its roots are inspired by Italian-American cooking—pasta, tomato sauce, and beef—but it evolved into a uniquely American pantry staple.
Cultural Significance
Beefaroni is often associated with childhood memories, school lunches, and budget-friendly family dinners. It represents simplicity, warmth, and practicality—food that feels like home. Today, many families recreate a homemade version to reclaim that nostalgia with better ingredients and fresher flavor.
Description
This one-pot homemade Beefaroni delivers a satisfying balance of savory beef, tender macaroni, lightly spiced tomato sauce, and optional melted cheese. It’s creamy, comforting, and deeply flavorful, yet remarkably easy to prepare. Perfect for when you want a warm, filling meal without a pile of dishes.
Optional Additions
Vegetables: bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, peas, or spinach
Cheese: mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan
Heat: red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or chili powder
Creaminess: splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta
Herbs: fresh basil or parsley to brighten the flavor
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the pasta: Stir occasionally and check at the 12-minute mark.
Use broth for richer flavor: Beef broth adds depth compared to water.
Adjust thickness: Add extra broth for a soupier texture or simmer uncovered to thicken.
Cheese at the end: Add only after heat is lowered to avoid clumping.
Season gradually: Tomato-based dishes may need extra salt at the end.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, 6 servings)
Calories: 390
Protein: 23 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 640 mg
Sugar: 6 g
(Values vary depending on optional ingredients and cheese.)
Conclusion
Easy One-Pot Homemade Beefaroni delivers all the comfort of the classic dish with fresher ingredients, better taste, and minimal cleanup. It’s fast, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
Recommendation
Pair your Beefaroni with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
