If you’re craving a comforting, classic meal that’s both hearty and bursting with flavor, this Homemade Beefaroni Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce infused with fragrant herbs, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to share with family and friends. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again because of how simple, satisfying, and downright delicious it is.

Homemade Beefaroni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Homemade Beefaroni Recipe shine. Each item plays its part in building the layers of flavor, from the savory beef to the aromatic herbs and the gooey cheese that pulls everything together beautifully.

1 lb ground beef: forms the rich, meaty base with a satisfyingly hearty texture.
2 cups elbow macaroni: the classic pasta shape that holds sauce perfectly and adds a pleasing bite.
1 small onion, finely chopped: adds sweetness and depth once softened.
2 cloves garlic, minced: infuses a warm, aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: brings fresh-tasting, slightly chunky tomato goodness.
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: creates a smooth, rich base to envelop all ingredients.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: intensifies the tomato flavor with a deep, concentrated punch.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: adds herbal, slightly peppery notes.
1 teaspoon dried basil: brings a sweet, fragrant backdrop.
Salt and pepper to taste: essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into a creamy, golden topping that makes the dish irresistible.

How to Make Homemade Beefaroni Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni just until it’s al dente — tender but still with a little bite. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy once it’s baked. Drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to combine with the flavorful beef mixture.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Browning the beef properly ensures you develop those rich, caramelized flavors that give this dish its signature heartiness. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the browned beef. Cooking these until the onion is soft and translucent releases their sweetness and melds beautifully with the meat.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Now stir in your canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, followed by oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let that simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so all those wonderful flavors marry together into a rich, savory sauce that hugs every bite.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cooked elbow macaroni into the skillet and fold it into the beefy tomato sauce. Mixing well ensures every piece of pasta gets cozy with the flavorful sauce, making every forkful simply irresistible.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Transfer everything to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, so it melts to a bubbly, golden crust that adds a luscious finish to the dish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. This baking step melds the flavors further and creates that delightful melted cheese topping everyone loves.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool just a bit before serving. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of green and sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat. Then dig in while hot!

How to Serve Homemade Beefaroni Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh parsley or basil on top not only boosts the color but also adds a fresh brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich beefaroni. A light pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring a playful kick of spice, elevating every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the comforting and cheesy main course with freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll on the side is perfect for scooping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Homemade Beefaroni Recipe in individual ramekins topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. You could also layer it into a lasagna-style bake with alternating layers of cheese and sauce, or serve it alongside sautéed mushrooms and roasted peppers for an extra vegetable punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors meld deliciously overnight, making for easy next-day meals. Leftovers keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This Homemade Beefaroni Recipe freezes beautifully! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some space for expansion and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For best results, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to keep it moist and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce well, feel free to swap in small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne based on what you have or prefer.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing and batch cooking?

Yes, this makes an excellent meal to batch cook and freeze. It reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture, making it perfect for busy weeks or meal prepping.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work great if you want a lighter or vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes during the sauce simmering stage or sprinkle some cayenne pepper for heat. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like it fiery.

What can I add to make the sauce richer or creamier?

Stirring in a splash of cream, half-and-half, or even a dollop of cream cheese after simmering adds wonderful creaminess and depth. That said, the classic tomato-based sauce is delicious as is!

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Beefaroni Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm, delicious memory in the making. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavors everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or craving that nostalgic taste of childhood favorites, give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen. You’re just a few steps away from a delicious, cheesy, beefy meal that will bring smiles all around.