Imagine a pot of bubbling Beefaroni, rich with savory beef, velvety sauce, and perfectly al dente pasta releasing a cozy aroma that fills the kitchen the moment it hits the stove.
This dish shines on rushed weeknights, family dinners, and lazy weekends when you need something hearty and crowd pleasing without spending hours in the kitchen.
SaveI remember my first attempt at Beefaroni as a kid, and the warm, cheesy nostalgia still makes it one of my favorite meals to whip up for the people I love.
Beefaroni Recipe
Ingredients
Beef and Aromatics
Sauce and Pasta
Cheesy Finish
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or sausage, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the rotini, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture looks thick.
- Simmer Together
Let the Beefaroni simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the savory flavors and become tender.
- Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the pan. Stir gently until the cheese is mostly melted and creamy throughout.
- Adjust Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired looseness.
- Finish and Garnish
Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley on top if using, and give it one final gentle stir to create a marbled cheesy look.
- Serve Hot
Ladle the Beefaroni into bowls, top with extra cheese if desired, and serve immediately while bubbling and creamy.
Substitutions and variations
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Swap rotini for penne or macaroni if you prefer.
- Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian style by using plant based crumbles.
- Add a spoon of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.
Chloe's tips
- For deeper flavor, use a mix of beef and pork sausage.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
- If you like it saucier, stir in a little heavy cream when adding the broth.
- Letting the pasta sit in the sauce for a couple minutes helps it absorb more taste.
How to store it
- Cool leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Serving suggestions
Serve this Beefaroni straight from the pot for the best comforting experience.
- Garnish with extra shredded mozzarella and parsley
- Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread
- Scoop into warm bowls and enjoy family style
Frequently asked questions
Can I make Beefaroni in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the beef and aromatics in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and simmer on low for 2 to 3 hours, adding pasta during the last 20 minutes.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
Thin it out by stirring in additional beef broth, pasta water, or a little milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Is this kid friendly?
Definitely, the mild seasoning and gooey cheese make it a hit with kids, and you can tone down spices to suit picky eaters.
Can I freeze Beefaroni?
It freezes well in airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding extra liquid if needed.
Let's get cooking!
This Beefaroni is the kind of simple, creamy, cheesy dinner that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy celebration, so go ahead and make a big batch to share with your favorite people.
