Growing up, one of my fondest memories was gathering around the dinner table with my family for a comforting meal. My mom had a knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious dishes, and one of her go-to recipes was always Homestyle Beefaroni. The aroma of garlic and Italian seasoning filling the kitchen was a sure sign that something wonderful was about to be served. This dish quickly became a family favorite, not just because of its hearty, savory flavors but also due to its simplicity and the way it brought us together.
This Homestyle Beefaroni recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce makes it a timeless classic that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves on cleanup and maximizes flavor, which is always a win in my book.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. While the original version is delicious on its own, there are numerous tweaks and variations you can experiment with to suit your taste or use up ingredients you have on hand. For a bit of a kick, you might consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re a cheese lover, stirring in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella just before serving can add a delightful creamy texture. For a veggie boost, toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach when you add the garlic.
This dish is also fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, divide it into individual portions, and have ready-to-go meals for the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its robust flavor and comforting texture.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Homestyle Beefaroni is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s a nostalgic dish that offers a warm, hearty meal perfect for bringing family and friends together.
Making the Homestyle Beefaroni
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Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1/2 onion, chopped finely
- 28 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onions, breaking the beef apart until it’s fully browned and the onions are tender.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until it’s aromatic.
- Mix in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni following the package instructions.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well mixed. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions for the chosen pasta.
What can I use instead of lean ground beef?
If you prefer, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. These options will also provide a delicious result.
Can I add vegetables to this beefaroni?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions and ground beef for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beefaroni in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, beefaroni freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Homestyle Beefaroni
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 28 ounces tomato sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onions together, breaking up the beef until it's cooked and the onions are soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
- Drain the pasta, then add it to the sauce, tossing until everything is well combined. Serve immediately.
