If you grew up loving canned beefaroni, you’re going to fall in love with this homemade version! It’s hearty, saucy, cheesy, and way more flavorful than anything store-bought. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have at home.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a nostalgic treat, or a cozy meal for the kiddos (who’ll definitely ask for seconds!).
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- ½ cup water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but delicious!)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or parmesan cheese
👩🍳 Pro Tips for the Best Beefaroni
- Cook pasta al dente – It will continue to cook a little in the sauce.
- Want it creamier? Stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese.
- Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use beef broth instead of water for a flavor boost.
- This dish freezes beautifully, so double the batch if you want leftovers!
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
- Gluten-free pasta if needed
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Stir in peas or corn for a veggie twist
- Use whole wheat pasta for a fiber boost
🔪 Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)
🔥 How to Make Homemade Beefaroni
1️⃣ Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned (about 5–6 minutes). Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2–3 minutes until soft. Drain excess grease.
3️⃣ Add Sauce & Simmer
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, water (or broth), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened slightly.
4️⃣ Combine with Pasta & Cheese
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and mix well. Stir in cheese if using, until melted and creamy.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley or extra cheese if desired. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread!
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in individual portions
- Reheat: Microwave or reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen
🍽️ A Comfort Food Classic You’ll Crave Again & Again
Homemade beefaroni is simple, satisfying, and full of nostalgic flavor—with way less sodium and way more love than the canned version. It’s easy enough for a quick dinner but comforting enough to feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Tried it? Let me know in the comments if you kept it classic or added your own twist! 🍝❤️
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