Classic Beefaroni
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying, look no further than this delectable Beefaroni recipe by Nikole Berg. Bursting with flavors of tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, this dish is a timeless classic loved by families across America. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy gathering with friends, Beefaroni is the perfect choice to please everyone’s taste buds.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
Beefaroni is a beloved dish that appeals to all ages, making it a family-friendly favorite. Children adore its comforting flavors and fun pasta shapes, while adults appreciate its simplicity and nostalgic charm. Busy parents will especially appreciate how easy and quick it is to prepare, making it a lifesaver on hectic evenings when time is of the essence. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite seasonings and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Why It’s Great
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, Beefaroni is a convenient option for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple and affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce, Beefaroni is a wallet-friendly option for feeding the whole family.
- Versatile: While this recipe features classic flavors, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Beefaroni, making it the perfect dish to enjoy on chilly evenings or whenever you need a dose of culinary comfort.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this Beefaroni recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings
- Casserole dish (if baking as a casserole)
- Cooking spray (if baking as a casserole)
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (although it’s unlikely there will be any!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through for a quick and convenient meal.
Food Pairings
Complete your Beefaroni meal with the following delicious accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread alongside your Beefaroni for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Green Salad: Balance out the richness of the Beefaroni with a crisp green salad dressed with your favorite vinaigrette.
- Red Wine: Pair your Beefaroni with a glass of robust red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, for an elegant touch to your meal.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply substitute it for the ground beef in equal amounts.
Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe? Certainly! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less chili powder, cumin, or garlic powder to achieve your desired level of flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, Beefaroni can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake or reheat. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Beefaroni is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy with its comforting flavors and simple preparation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this hearty dish is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of Americana with this fantastic Beefaroni recipe!
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Classic Beefaroni
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings
- Casserole dish (if baking as a casserole)
- Cooking spray (if baking as a casserole)
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon mild flavored oil
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 1 lb ground beef 85% lean
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2-15 oz. cans tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped
- 10 oz. large elbow macaroni cooked (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded (optional)
Instructions
- Mix seasoning together in a small bowl, set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle on the seasonings and some salt and pepper. Cook until completely browned. Add minced garlic, cook for one minute.
- Add tomato sauce to beef mixture and stir until well mixed. Let simmer for 25 minutes (uncovered) while you cook the macaroni. Stir in parsley after the sauce has simmered.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions to al dente (usually 7 minutes). Drain cooking water (don’t rinse) and add to tomato/beef mixture. Stir well.
- To serve with cheese:
- Preheat broiler. Add one to two cups of cheese to the beefaroni. Broil skillet a few inches away from the heat until the cheese melts and is lightly browned. Be sure your skillet is oven proof or cover your handles with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
To bake as a casserole:
- Preheat oven to 350º F. Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray. Add beefaroni to the dish then top with cheese. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.