Delicious Beefaroni Recipe: A Family Favourite
Indulge in this homemade Beefaroni recipe, a delightful dish featuring ground beef, macaroni, and a seasoned tomato sauce enriched with cheese.
This easy-to-make dinner is sure to become a staple in your household.
What Makes Beefaroni Stand Out?
This recipe for Beefaroni is more than just another pasta dish. It stands out because of its rich, thick sauce, which includes tomato paste, a touch of cream, and sautéed onions.
In contrast, dishes like goulash and Hamburger Helper offer different flavours and textures. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Beefaroni: A thicker sauce with tomato sauce or paste, cream, and onions.
- Goulash/American Chops Suey: Features diced tomatoes, onions, and no creamy element.
- Hamburger Helper: Lacks tomato ingredients, offers a thinner sauce, and no diced veggies.
Ingredients for the Perfect Beefaroni
To prepare this scrumptious Beefaroni, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- ½ lb macaroni (about 2 cups)
For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- ½ cup half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- ½ beef bouillon cube
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano, basil, and parsley
How to Make Beefaroni
Making Beefaroni is straightforward. Follow these easy steps:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large measuring cup with a spout, combine the sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for about three minutes. Then, add the diced onions and sauté until the beef is fully cooked and onions are tender, roughly 5-6 minutes. Drain the grease and place the beef and onions on a plate.
- Boil the Pasta: Start boiling a pot of water for the macaroni. Add half a tablespoon of salt once the water reaches a rolling boil.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, flour, and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Cook for one to two minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Finish the Dish: Slowly sprinkle cheese into the sauce, stirring until melted. Return the ground beef and onions to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Add the cooked macaroni, stirring to combine everything.
- Serve: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top and cover the skillet until melted. Enjoy your Beefaroni!
Pro Tips for the Best Beefaroni
- Choose the Right Tomato Sauce: I prefer using Hunt’s tomato sauce, but tomato passata works well too.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate cheese from a block rather than using pre-packaged grated cheese for a creamier texture.
- Add Bouillon for Extra Flavor: A little beef bouillon enhances the sauce’s depth. If you prefer, use salt instead.
- Experiment with Pasta: While macaroni is traditional, medium pasta shells, rotini, or bowtie pasta can be great alternatives.
- Storage Options: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for three months.
Nutrition Information
This delicious Beefaroni offers a balanced meal with approximately:
- Calories: 509 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
Vegetable broth or chicken broth can be used for a different flavour profile.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and reheat before serving for convenience.
Is Beefaroni kid-friendly?
Yes, kids typically love the cheesy, comforting flavours of this dish.
What side dishes pair well with Beefaroni?
A simple green salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
This homemade Beefaroni recipe is a perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. With its rich flavours and satisfying textures, it promises to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
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References
By following this guide, your Beefaroni will be a hit, and it will surely become a cherished recipe in your home.