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Beefaroni Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

This classic Beefaroni recipe combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce to create a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals. With a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, savory seasonings, and tender pasta, it’s an easy one-pan dish that delivers big flavor in about 40 minutes.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Beef and Aromatics

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Cheese

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • ½ beef bouillon cube
  • 8 oz. tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • ½ cup half and half
  • ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¾ teaspoon dried parsley
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Pasta

  • ½ lb. macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
  • ½ tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce Ingredients: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, yellow mustard, beef broth, tomato sauce, half and half, tomato paste, dried oregano, basil, parsley, and half a beef bouillon cube in a large measuring cup with a spout. Set this mixture aside for later use.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the beef, and cook while crumbling for 3 minutes. Add the diced onions and continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly cooked and onions are softened, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease and transfer the meat mixture to a plate temporarily.
  3. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add ½ tablespoon of salt. Cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions, stirring occasionally. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the Roux and Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, flour, and tomato paste, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux and develop flavor.
  5. Add the Sauce Mixture Gradually: Slowly pour the sauce mixture into the skillet in small splashes while stirring continuously. This method helps prevent the roux from breaking and ensures the sauce thickens properly.
  6. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer uncovered while preparing the pasta, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
  7. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously to melt and evenly distribute. Reserve some cheese for optional topping later.
  8. Combine Beef and Pasta: Return the cooked ground beef and onions to the sauce and stir well. Then, add the drained macaroni pasta and mix until everything is well coated and combined.
  9. Melt the Remaining Cheese and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, cover with a lid briefly to melt the cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Beefaroni!

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and calories.
  • Reserve some cheddar cheese for topping and melting on top just before serving.
  • The beef bouillon cube adds depth to the sauce but can be omitted if preferred.
  • For a creamier sauce, you can substitute half and half with whole milk or cream.
  • To make this dish gluten free, use gluten-free flour and macaroni.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American