You know those evenings when time feels tight, everyone’s hungry, and you just need something reliable on the table fast? That’s exactly when I reach for this beefaroni recipe. It’s cozy, satisfying, and made with ingredients you probably already have tucked away in your pantry.
What I love most? It’s a one-skillet kind of meal — no juggling five pots or endless cleanup afterward. Just simple steps, familiar flavors, and a dish that never fails to bring smiles around the table.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make it from start to finish, share helpful tips I’ve learned after many (many!) batches, and show you how to make it your own. Let’s get cooking — your skillet is about to become the hero of dinner time!
Why This Beefaroni Recipe Is a Family Favorite
Let me tell you — this beefaroni recipe is one of those go-to meals that never lets you down. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together on a weeknight without overthinking, but it still feels warm and special when it hits the table. Whether you’re cooking for little ones, teens with big appetites, or just looking for something comforting to share with loved ones, this one’s a keeper.
Here’s why it belongs in your regular dinner rotation:
Quick and easy to make
Everything cooks in one pan — no boiling noodles separately or juggling a sink full of dishes. Just simple steps, and dinner is served in about 30 minutes.
Family friendly and picky-eater approved
That saucy, cheesy combo? It wins every time. Even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds (and sometimes thirds).
Works like a charm on hectic weekdays or quiet weekends
Whether you’re coming in from a long day or just keeping it low-key, this beefaroni recipe fits right in — simple, warm, and ready when you are.
Customizable with what you’ve got
Don’t have elbow macaroni? Use shells. Want to toss in some veggies or change up the cheese? Go for it — this dish is flexible and forgiving.
Tastes even better the next day
Got leftovers? Lucky you — they warm up beautifully and the flavors deepen overnight, making the next meal just as enjoyable as the first.
Great for meal prep or freezer meals
Double the batch and freeze some for later. It’s a little like future-you left a homemade gift in the freezer — and who doesn’t love that?
When a recipe feels this familiar and satisfying, it quickly becomes a family tradition. It’s simple, it’s comforting, and it brings everyone to the table — sometimes without even calling them.
Next, let’s look at what you’ll need to bring this one-pan favorite to life.
Ingredients for the Best Homemade Beefaroni Recipe
Let’s gather everything you’ll need to bring this cozy beefaroni recipe to life. This dish keeps things simple — pantry staples, nothing fancy, just real comfort in a skillet. Each ingredient plays a part, and I’ll walk you through exactly why it’s here and how much to use.
Basic Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni – 12 oz (about 3 cups dry):
The classic pasta shape that soaks up every drop of that rich, savory sauce. - Ground beef – 1 lb (preferably 85% lean):
Adds bold flavor and a hearty bite that ties the whole dish together. - Yellow onion – 1 small, finely diced:
Adds a mellow sweetness and balances the tomato base beautifully. - Garlic – 2 cloves, minced:
Gives the sauce that irresistible aroma and savory backbone. - Tomato sauce – 2 cans (15 oz each):
Smooth, tangy, and the perfect base for the saucy layer that hugs every noodle. - Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons:
Adds richness and intensifies the tomato flavor without thinning the sauce. - Beef broth – 2 cups (low sodium):
Helps the pasta cook right in the sauce while adding a savory punch. - Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon:
A dependable blend that brings in herby notes with zero effort. - Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon:
Just enough to warm up the flavor and add a subtle smoky layer. - Kosher salt – ¾ teaspoon (or to taste):
Keeps everything balanced and enhances each ingredient. - Black pepper – ½ teaspoon, freshly ground:
Adds a hint of heat and depth without overpowering. - Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup:
Melts right on top for that gooey, golden finish we all love. - Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional):
A little fresh color to finish — not essential, but a nice touch!
Optional Add-Ins
Want to switch it up or sneak in a few extras? These blend in beautifully:
- Diced bell peppers (1 cup): Add color and a soft crunch.
- Sliced mushrooms (1 cup): A great way to stretch the dish and deepen flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ tsp): For those who like a little heat.
Pro Tip:
Craving a flavor twist? Swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and use Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex spin. Or stir in a dash of soy sauce and swap parsley for scallions to give it a cozy, stir-fry-style vibe. This homemade beefaroni recipe is endlessly flexible — don’t be afraid to make it your own!
All right, with everything ready to go, it’s time to cook! This next part comes together faster than you’d think and fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma.
How to Make This Easy Beefaroni Recipe Step by Step
Cooking this easy beefaroni recipe is a breeze — everything happens in one pan, and it’s all about layering simple flavors. Here’s how to do it, step by step, like we’re standing in the kitchen together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the beef
Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, carefully drain off any extra grease.
2. Add the onion and garlic
Add the onion and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring gently, until it turns soft and brings a mellow aroma to the pan. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until you catch that wonderful, garlicky scent.
3. Season and build the base
Season the mixture with Italian herbs, a touch of paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to bring everything together. Stir everything around so the spices coat the meat evenly. Scoop in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute, giving it time to deepen the flavor and blend into the meat. This step lays the groundwork for the rich, hearty sauce that’s coming next.
4. Pour in the liquids
Add the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift all those tasty browned bits into the mix. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the pasta
Once it’s simmering, add your uncooked elbow macaroni. Give everything a good stir so the pasta is coated, then reduce the heat to medium to let it simmer gently. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and the sauce slightly thickened.
6. Add the cheese
When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, scatter the shredded cheddar over the top like a cozy finishing touch. Cover the pan again and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey layer of deliciousness. You can even pop it under the broiler for a minute or two if you like it bubbly and browned.
7. Finish and serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color, and serve it up while it’s piping hot!
There’s something so satisfying about stirring together a skillet of beefaroni and knowing dinner is done. With the hard part behind us, let’s chat about fun ways to serve it — and how to keep those leftovers just as tasty the next day.
Chef Tips and Tasty Variations for Your Beefaroni Recipe
Once you’ve made this beefaroni recipe a few times, you’ll find yourself naturally adding little touches and tweaks. That’s the beauty of it — it’s dependable, but also wide open to your kitchen creativity. Below are some of my favorite tips and fun variations to make it even more your own.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook the pasta
Keep an eye on it during the simmer. You want the noodles tender but not mushy — they’ll keep cooking a bit even after the heat is off. - Stir occasionally
Just once or twice during simmering is enough to keep the noodles from sticking and to help them soak up that tomato-beef goodness evenly. - Taste before serving
A quick taste test before adding the cheese helps you fine-tune the salt and pepper. Every broth and tomato brand is a little different!
Flavor Boosts and Add-Ins
- Make it spicy
Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while the sauce simmers for a gentle heat that plays well with the cheese. - Cheese swap
Try mozzarella for extra stretch, Monterey Jack for smoothness, or even a blend if you’re feeling fancy. - Add more veggies
A handful of chopped spinach, shredded carrots, or diced zucchini blends in beautifully and bulks up the dish with no extra pots.
Fun Variations
- Tex-Mex Twist
Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, and add black beans and corn. Top with cheddar and a few slices of avocado or green onion. - BBQ Beefaroni
Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce to the tomato mixture and use a smoked cheese like Gouda or cheddar. - One-for-the-Freezer
Double the batch and freeze half — it reheats like a dream and saves you on the next busy weeknight.
With a few smart tweaks, this easy beefaroni recipe can go from a classic comfort meal to something brand-new with every batch. Ready to dish it up? Let’s talk about how to serve it like a pro!
Serving Ideas for a Classic Beefaroni Recipe Everyone Loves
There’s something about a bubbling skillet of beefaroni that just feels like home, isn’t there? Whether you’re setting the table for your family or scooping it into lunch containers, this beefaroni recipe fits just about any occasion.
Ways to Serve It
- Simple and classic
Just scoop into bowls and let everyone dig in — it’s satisfying all on its own! - With a side salad
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness and adds a little freshness to the plate. - Bread on the side
Garlic bread, soft dinner rolls, or even cheesy toast are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. - Topped and styled
Sprinkle extra cheese, chopped parsley, or a tiny spoon of ricotta on top just before serving for a little flair. - Lunchbox leftovers
Pack into thermoses or reheatable containers — it holds up well and stays delicious even after a quick reheat.
From casual dinners to cozy lunches, this homemade beefaroni recipe knows how to show up. Now, let’s make sure you know how to keep those leftovers just as tasty tomorrow.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers from Your Beefaroni Recipe
One of the best parts of making a big skillet of beefaroni recipe goodness? Knowing tomorrow’s dinner (or lunch!) is already sorted. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and can be frozen for later without missing a beat.
Storing Leftovers
- In the fridge
Let it cool fully, then transfer to an airtight container. It holds up nicely in the fridge for about 4 days — just be sure it’s sealed up tight. - In the freezer
Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and date them — it’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave (single servings):
Add a small splash of broth or water to prevent dryness, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. - Stovetop (larger portions):
Warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or sauce, stirring now and then until it’s heated through and saucy again. - Oven (bake-style):
If reheating a big batch, spread it in a baking dish, top with fresh cheese, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Knowing how to store and reheat your beefaroni recipe homemade makes life so much easier — it’s the kind of meal that just keeps giving.
Related Recipes You May Love
If you enjoyed this beefaroni recipe, here are a couple more cozy pasta dishes that are just as satisfying:
- Pastalaya Recipe – A bold twist on pasta night with sausage, veggies, and Cajun flavor in every bite.
- Ditalini Pasta Recipe – A simple and hearty dish that’s great for weeknights or easy lunches.
Easy Beefaroni Recipe Your Family Will Crave
Equipment
- Large deep skillet with lid
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni about 3 cups dry
- 1 lb ground beef 85% lean
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cans 15 oz each tomato sauce
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¾ tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain any excess grease.
- Add the onion and sauté 2–3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Mix in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
- Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle cheese on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Key Takeaways
- This beefaroni recipe is quick, simple, and made in one skillet.
- Perfect for busy nights, picky eaters, or cozy comfort meals.
- Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have.
- Easy to customize with veggies, seasonings, or different cheeses.
- Stores and reheats well — great for next-day meals or freezer prep.
Let’s finish things off with answers to common questions so you feel fully ready to cook!
Beefaroni Recipe FAQ: Quick Answers for Easy Cooking
Got questions before you tie on your apron? Here are some common ones that come up with this beefaroni recipe — answered like we’re chatting in the kitchen.
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this beefaroni recipe?
Absolutely. Choose a sturdy gluten-free pasta like elbows or penne. Just keep an eye on the texture — they can cook a little quicker than regular pasta, so test early. You may also want to add an extra splash (about ½ cup) of broth to keep the sauce nice and smooth.
Which type of ground beef works best in this beefaroni recipe?
I like to use 85% lean ground beef — it gives you great flavor without being too greasy. If you’re using leaner meat, a little olive oil in the pan can help keep things tender and tasty.
How can I make this beefaroni recipe even faster?
Brown the beef ahead of time and stash it in the fridge for a day or two. When it’s time to cook, you’ll skip straight to the sauce — dinner hits the table even faster.
Can I make this original beefaroni recipe without cheese?
You sure can. For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based shredded cheese or stir in ⅓ cup of nutritional yeast for a savory touch that blends right into the sauce.
Can I double this simple beefaroni recipe?
Definitely! Grab a big pot or Dutch oven, double all the ingredients, and extend the simmering time by a few minutes. Just stir it a bit more often to keep things cooking evenly.
What goes well with this best beefaroni recipe?
We love it with a side salad, steamed green beans, or even garlic bread if you’re going full comfort mode. It’s a great anchor for a cozy, complete meal.
Still with me? Let’s wrap up with a few final thoughts before you dive in and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite.
Conclusion
There’s just something special about a recipe that brings everyone to the table without a lot of fuss, and this beefaroni recipe does exactly that. It’s cozy, dependable, and full of the kind of flavor that keeps folks coming back for seconds. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fifth, it always feels like home.
If you gave this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a review and let me know your favorite twist — I always enjoy hearing how families make it their own!
