Homemade Beefaroni

Posted on December 2, 2025

Homemade Beefaroni is a delightful twist on a classic childhood favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This comforting dish brings together tender pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, Homemade Beefaroni is not just delicious; it’s an easy solution for any occasion, from casual meals to potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
Hearty & Filling: With protein-rich beef and ample pasta, this dish will satisfy hungry appetites.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Beefaroni experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Using quality kitchen tools ensures that you can prepare your meal efficiently.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Cooking spoon
Pot for boiling pasta
Colander for draining

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the beef and sauce together evenly without overcrowding.
Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps you mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging them.
Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that your elbow macaroni cooks perfectly al dente.
Colander for draining: Quick and easy drainage prevents soggy pasta in your final dish.

Ingredients

As a kid, I just loved Chef Boyardee Beefaroni. Now that I’m grown up, I’ve got something even better: my easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (I recommend 85/15)
– 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
– 15 oz tomato sauce
– 6 oz tomato paste
– 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon garlic salt
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Homemade Beefaroni

Step 1: Cook the Meat and Onions

Cook the ground beef and onions in a large skillet over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Combine the Sauces

Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add the garlic salt, chili powder, oregano, basil, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain well using a colander.

Step 5: Mix Pasta with Sauce

Mix the cooked macaroni into the sauce in the skillet. Stir until every piece of pasta is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Lower the heat and add in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all cheeses are fully melted and nicely incorporated into the pasta and sauce.

Now you’re ready to serve your delicious Homemade Beefaroni! Enjoy this hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

How to Serve Homemade Beefaroni

Serving Homemade Beefaroni can be both fun and creative. This comforting dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, elevating your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Homemade Beefaroni.

Add Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch that complements the tomato sauce.

Include Tasty Toppings

Grated Cheese: Offer additional cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to melt on top for extra gooeyness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, provide crushed red pepper flakes to add some heat.

Pair with Crunchy Elements

Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly.
Salad: A light garden salad can add freshness to balance the richness of the beefaroni.

Serve in Individual Portions

Personal Bowls: Dish out servings in small bowls for individual enjoyment, making it feel special at any gathering.

How to Perfect Homemade Beefaroni

Perfecting Homemade Beefaroni is about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

Use Quality Ground Beef: Choosing fresh ground beef ensures better flavor and texture in your dish.
Simmer Longer: Letting the sauce simmer longer enhances the depth of flavor, making it richer.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the macaroni until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can create a unique flavor profile.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Beefaroni

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Beefaroni can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

Garlic Bread: A crispy loaf with garlic butter makes an excellent accompaniment for scooping up sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or green beans add nutrients and balance to the meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the beefaroni.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthiness and a delightful crunch.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that pairs well with pasta dishes.

Enjoy your Homemade Beefaroni with these delicious suggestions!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Homemade Beefaroni, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using Low-Quality Meat: High-quality ground beef enhances flavor. Choose an 85/15 blend for the best results.
Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skip on spices! A well-seasoned sauce brings out the flavors. Adjust garlic salt, oregano, and basil to your taste.
Overcooking Pasta: Al dente is key! Follow package directions closely to prevent mushy macaroni.
Ignoring Simmer Time: Letting the sauce simmer is crucial for depth of flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes to develop the taste.
Skipping Cheese Variety: Using a mix of cheeses adds richness. Don’t just stick to one; combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a flavorful dish.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Homemade Beefaroni

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Beefaroni

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Homemade Beefaroni?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Spicy elements like jalapeños can also be included for a kick!

Can I use other types of meat in Homemade Beefaroni?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works wonderfully as alternatives while maintaining great flavor.

How do I make Homemade Beefaroni vegan?

Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat and use dairy-free cheese options for a delicious vegan version.

What should I serve with Homemade Beefaroni?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Homemade Beefaroni recipe combines nostalgia with enhanced flavors that you’ll love. It’s versatile and allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will adore!