If you have a soft spot for comforting pasta dishes that bring together hearty flavors and creamy textures, this Beefaroni Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. It’s a delightful blend of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce that’s both tangy and slightly sweet, all wrapped up with a melty touch of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. This dish hits all the right notes for a satisfying weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, effortlessly pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each one playing a crucial role in building the rich flavor and comforting texture of this Beefaroni Recipe. From the lean ground beef to the creamy cheeses, every element enhances the dish’s depth and heartiness.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the meaty base with rich flavor and protein.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Adds a vibrant, tangy tomato foundation that brightens the dish.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful and perfectly saucy; add more if needed for consistency.
- 8 ounces ziti (or large elbow macaroni): These sturdy pasta shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- 2 ounces cream cheese: Gives a smooth, creamy texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar: Cuts the acidity and brings a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder: Deepens the savory profile without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic aroma and warmth.
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp, melty finish that adds a nice cheesy kick at the end.
How to Make Beefaroni Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This stage builds the foundational meaty taste, so take your time to get some nice color without burning. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, pasta, cream cheese, tomato paste, granulated sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder into the pan. This wonderful mix starts the transformation into a saucy, hearty dish where flavors will meld beautifully. The cream cheese might look a bit stubborn at first but will melt into silky perfection!
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan to let it simmer gently. Cook for about 14 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will soak up the sauce, resulting in a wonderfully creamy and cohesive dish. If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of beef broth to keep it nice and saucy.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Final Touch
When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened just right, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the pan again and let the dish rest for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and everything to settle. Before serving, taste and add salt and pepper as needed for that perfect flavor balance.
How to Serve Beefaroni Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the hearty sauce. A little extra shredded cheddar on top before serving is always welcomed by cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
Beefaroni pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty roll is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Beefaroni Recipe inside hollowed-out bell peppers or use it as a filling for stuffed zucchini boats. You can also turn leftovers into a baked casserole topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, baked until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will even deepen after resting overnight, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid texture issues with the pasta, consider slightly undercooking the pasta at first before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir frequently until heated through to keep the texture creamy and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Beefaroni Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti or large elbow macaroni works best because they hold the sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or even small shells.
Is it possible to make this recipe without cream cheese?
You can omit the cream cheese if needed, but it adds a lovely creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. A good substitute would be a splash of heavy cream or a mild cheese like mascarpone.
How spicy is this Beefaroni Recipe?
This particular version is mild and kid-friendly, focusing on savory and slightly sweet flavors. You can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want a bit of heat.
Can I prepare Beefaroni Recipe in advance?
Yes! You can make it ahead and refrigerate or freeze it as described above. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I pair with Beefaroni for a complete meal?
A fresh salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments, adding a freshness that complements the richness of the Beefaroni. Garlic bread also never disappoints!
Final Thoughts
This Beefaroni Recipe is truly a comforting classic that combines simplicity with rich, satisfying flavors. It’s an easy, wholesome dish perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to indulge in a warm, hearty meal. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it becomes a fixture in your kitchen just like it has in mine!
Print
Beefaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Beefaroni recipe featuring tender ground beef simmered with ziti pasta in a rich tomato-based sauce, finished with creamy cheese for a delicious one-pot meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or more if needed, up to 3 cups)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
Pasta
- 8 ounces ziti (or large elbow macaroni)
Dairy
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a 12-inch saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains. Drain excess grease to ensure a leaner dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, 2 cups of beef broth, ziti or elbow macaroni, cream cheese, tomato paste, granulated sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder into the saucepan with the cooked beef.
- Simmer the Dish: Bring the sauce mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer, cooking for 14-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more beef broth if needed to maintain a saucy consistency.
- Finish and Rest: Once the pasta is tender, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover again and let rest for 5 to 7 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
Notes
- Adjust beef broth quantity based on how saucy you want the dish.
- Use ziti or large elbow macaroni for best texture and sauce adherence.
- Simmering time depends on pasta type; check for doneness after 14 minutes.
- Resting the dish after cooking helps the cheese melt fully and flavors meld.
