In every home, there’s that one dish that earns a special nickname, and in ours, it’s affectionately known as “Cheesy Beefaroni.” This beloved classic is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a delightful fusion of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, tomato-based sauce, all baked to golden perfection under a generous blanket of gooey, melted cheese. It’s the quintessential family favorite, offering warmth and satisfaction with every forkful.
This homemade beefaroni recipe is not just incredibly delicious; it’s a guaranteed hit with the entire family, perfect for those bustling weeknights when time is short but the craving for hearty comfort food is strong. What makes it even better? You likely already have most, if not all, of the ingredients stocked in your pantry and refrigerator, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice for any meal planner.
Ingredients for the Perfect Homemade Cheesy Beefaroni
Forget the often bland, overly processed canned versions. Crafting your own Cheesy Beefaroni from scratch allows you to control the quality and freshness of every component, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with authentic flavor. This easy beefaroni recipe doesn’t demand exotic or hard-to-find items; instead, it celebrates the power of simple, affordable ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary. It’s an ideal recipe for feeding a hungry crowd without breaking the bank.
- Ground Beef: The foundation of this hearty dish, ground beef provides a rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture. Opt for a lean-to-medium fat content (85/15 or 80/20) for the best balance of flavor and ease of cooking, ensuring a succulent base for the sauce.
- Elbow Pasta: The quintessential choice for beefaroni, elbow pasta’s small, curved shape is perfect for cradling the robust tomato-meat sauce. It adds a delightful chewiness and makes the dish substantial and filling.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses form the backbone of the dish’s flavor profile. Diced onions caramelize to add a subtle sweetness and depth, while minced garlic infuses the sauce with its pungent, earthy notes, creating a wonderfully fragrant base.
- Butter: A touch of butter when sautéing the aromatics not only prevents sticking but also introduces a luxurious, creamy richness that rounds out the savory flavors of the beef and enhances the overall mouthfeel of the sauce.
- Dried Parsley, Oregano, and Crushed Red Pepper: This blend of dried herbs and spices elevates the beefaroni from simple to sensational. Parsley brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous touch, oregano delivers classic Italian warmth and aroma, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle, welcoming hint of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference for a mild or spicy kick.
- Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: The dual tomato components create a perfectly balanced and deeply flavorful sauce. Crushed tomatoes provide a robust, tangy base with a pleasant texture, while tomato sauce adds a smooth consistency and intensifies that classic tomato flavor, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Mozzarella Cheese: The magic happens with this cheesy duo. Sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy punch and melts into a creamy consistency, contributing to the casserole’s rich flavor. Mozzarella, known for its incredible stretch and mild, milky taste, provides that irresistible gooeyness and signature cheese pull, making every bite a delight.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out and enhancing all the individual flavors in the dish. Salt balances the acidity of the tomatoes and highlights the savory notes of the beef, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a touch of zing.
Together, these thoughtfully selected ingredients transform into a cohesive, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying Cheesy Beefaroni dish that embodies true comfort food.
Why This Homemade Cheesy Beefaroni Recipe Works
Prepare to be truly delighted by how remarkably simple yet utterly delicious this recipe is. There’s no need for any obscure or exotic ingredients; everything you need is readily available, making grocery shopping a breeze. And the taste? Absolutely incredible. It’s the epitome of comfort food, a dish that pleases palates of all ages, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning gourmands. Because it comes together so quickly, it’s the ideal choice for a satisfying, stress-free weekday meal.
The harmonious combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender elbow pasta, and a luscious blend of melted sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese will undoubtedly elevate this dish to an instant family favorite in your household. Its universal appeal makes it a standout. Beyond its deliciousness, this homemade beefaroni is also a remarkably budget-friendly option, capable of easily satisfying a large group or providing ample leftovers for future meals. This recipe is a triple win: incredibly tasty, easy to prepare, and economical, ensuring smiles all around and making your meal planning a joyous endeavor.
To round out this fantastic meal, consider serving it with some freshly baked Italian bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce, or perhaps a light and super flavorful Arugula Fennel Salad to add a refreshing contrast.
How To Make Homemade Cheesy Beefaroni: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this irresistible Cheesy Beefaroni is a straightforward process, broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps:
1. Prepare for Baking: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your casserole is ready to bake, allowing for even cooking and perfectly melted cheese.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and mostly translucent. This step sweetens the onions and builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
4. Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions and butter. Break up the beef with a spoon and brown it thoroughly, ensuring no pink remains. If using a higher fat content ground beef, drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming greasy. Lean ground beef typically requires no draining.
5. Season the Meat: Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to become fragrant and infuse the beef with their aromatic essence.
6. Develop the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce into the skillet with the seasoned beef. Stir everything together well. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, just until it is warmed through and the flavors begin to meld. The longer you let it cook at this stage, the more integrated and rich the flavors will become.
7. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained elbow pasta to the skillet with the tomato meat sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the delicious, savory sauce. Continue to cook for another few minutes on low heat, allowing the mixture to warm up evenly and for the pasta to absorb some of the rich flavors.
8. Prepare for Baking: In a separate bowl, toss together the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. Transfer the combined beefaroni mixture from the skillet into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Add the Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the mixed cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the beefaroni, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This cheese layer will melt into a beautiful, golden crust during baking.
10. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and lightly golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
Pro Tip
To simplify cleanup, you may want to place the casserole dish on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet before putting it in the oven. This way, any accidental spills or overflows will be caught by the foil, making post-dinner tidying a breeze.
11. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to set slightly, making for easier serving. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped flat leaf parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness before serving.
This classic recipe for easy homemade Cheesy Beefaroni truly has it all: robust ground beef, a rich and deeply flavored tomato sauce, hints of fragrant Italian seasoning, all generously crowned with a bubbly layer of cheesy goodness. The layers of well-balanced flavors are sure to please even the most discerning palates in your home, turning skeptics into fans. This homemade beefaroni is not only infinitely more delicious but also a healthier alternative to any canned version, allowing you to avoid artificial ingredients and excessive sodium.
So, embark on a nostalgic culinary journey with this straightforward and satisfying recipe. Using fresh ingredients consistently leads to the best results, delivering a depth of flavor and a comforting experience that you and your loved ones will absolutely adore. Dive in and enjoy!
Make Ahead Instructions for Cheesy Beefaroni
Preparing Cheesy Beefaroni ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal prep and ensure a delicious, comforting dinner is ready when you are. Here’s how to do it:
Initial Preparation: Follow the recipe instructions precisely through all the cooking steps until the point just before baking. This means cooking the pasta, browning the beef, preparing the sauce, and combining everything in the skillet. At this stage, do not transfer to the baking dish or add the cheese topping yet.
Cooling and Storage: Once the beefaroni mixture is fully cooked and has simmered to perfection, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool down significantly, reaching room temperature. This is a crucial step to prevent condensation and maintain freshness. Transfer the cooled beefaroni to an airtight container or directly into the baking dish you plan to use, ensuring it has a tight-fitting lid or is well-covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating and Baking: When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (350°F / 175°C). If the beefaroni mixture was stored in a separate container, transfer it to your 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top, if desired, to refresh the cheesy layer. Bake the casserole according to the original recipe’s instructions (35-45 minutes), or until it’s heated through, bubbling around the edges, and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden.
Stovetop Reheating (for individual portions): For smaller portions or a quicker reheat, transfer the desired amount of beefaroni to a large pot or skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is thoroughly warmed through. Add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if the mixture appears too thick or dry. You can add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top as it heats on the stovetop, covering the pot briefly to help it melt.
Serving: Once thoroughly heated and baked, the beefaroni is ready to be enjoyed. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Preparing Cheesy Beefaroni in advance not only saves valuable time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen further, resulting in an even more delicious and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations for Your Cheesy Beefaroni
Enhance your Cheesy Beefaroni experience with these expert tips and creative variations:
- Properly Season and Brown the Ground Beef: This initial step is paramount for a flavorful dish. Always season the ground beef generously with kosher salt and black pepper before browning. When browning, resist the urge to constantly stir; allow the beef to develop a golden-brown crust on one side before breaking it up. This caramelization adds significant depth, richness, and an umami punch that elevates the entire casserole.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: The texture of your pasta is key. Overcooked, mushy pasta can detract from the dish. Aim for al dente, meaning the pasta should be firm to the bite. Follow the package directions, but start testing for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. This ensures your elbow macaroni maintains its structural integrity and pleasant chewiness even after baking in the sauce.
- Allow the Flavors to Meld: After combining all the ingredients, especially once the tomato sauce is added, let the beefaroni mixture simmer on low heat for a little while before transferring it to the baking dish. This crucial step allows the various flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and herbs to fully integrate and deepen, creating a more harmonious and cohesive taste. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Cheesy Veggie Beefaroni: Boost the nutritional value and add extra layers of flavor by incorporating a variety of vegetables. During the sautéing stage with the onions, add finely diced bell peppers (any color), zucchini, or mushrooms. Alternatively, stir in some frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn) during the simmering process, allowing them to warm through. Top with your generous amount of shredded cheese before baking until golden and bubbly for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Spicy Beefaroni with a Kick: If you love a bit of heat, this variation is for you. Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the recipe, or finely mince and add a jalapeño (seeded for less heat, or with seeds for more) along with the garlic. For an even bolder flavor and heat profile, consider using spicy Italian sausage (casings removed) instead of ground beef, or a mix of both. Garnish the finished dish with fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions for a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the spice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beefaroni
In some regions, particularly in New England, beefaroni is often referred to as “American chop suey.” This term describes a similar dish typically consisting of ground beef, elbow pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. While ingredients and preparations can vary slightly across different households and regions, both names point to a beloved, hearty comfort food that is a staple in many American kitchens.
Beefaroni is a classic American casserole dish, celebrated for its comforting and satisfying qualities. It’s typically composed of seasoned ground beef, small elbow noodles, and a rich, savory tomato-based sauce, often baked with a generous layer of melted cheese on top. It’s a complete meal in one dish, perfect for family dinners.
When made at home, beefaroni can be a much healthier option compared to its canned counterparts. Canned versions often contain high levels of sodium, unhealthy fats, and processed ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, significantly increasing their calorie count and reducing their nutritional value. By making it from scratch, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and whole-wheat pasta, and to moderate the salt and cheese, resulting in a more wholesome, nutritious, and undeniably better-tasting dish.
Other Fabulous Pasta Dishes You’ll Love
Old Fashioned Goulash (American Goulash)
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Foolproof Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage
Homemade Cheesy Beefaroni Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 8 ounces Elbow pasta
- 1 small Onion
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried Parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed Red Pepper optional
- 15 ounce can crushed Tomatoes standard can
- 15 ounce Tomato sauce standard can, without seasoning
- 1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Boil the pasta according to the box instructions to al dente.8 ounces Elbow pasta
- In a large skillet, add the butter over medium heat and saute the onions until mostly transucent, about 5 minutes.2 tbsp Butter, 1 small Onion
- In a large skillet brown the ground beef (drain if too much fat), season with kosher salt and black pepper.1 pound Ground Beef, 1/2 tsp Kosher salt, 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- Add garlic, parsley, oregano and red pepper flakes, cook about 2 minutes.2 cloves Garlic, 1 teaspoon dried Parsley, 1 1/2 teaspoons Oregano, 1/4 teaspoon crushed Red Pepper
- Add the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes, cook to warm through.15 ounce Tomato sauce, 15 ounce can crushed Tomatoes
- Mix the tomato meat mixture with the pasta, pour into a casserole dish.8 ounces Elbow pasta
- Top with the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and bake for 35-45 minutes.1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese
- Let rest about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Allow the beefaroni to cool down to room temperature. Next, transfer the leftover beefaroni to an airtight container or place it in a resealable plastic bag, then place the container or bag in the refrigerator and store for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
Allow the beefaroni to cool completely before freezing. This helps to maintain its texture and prevent ice crystals from forming.
Transfer the beefaroni to a freezer-safe container or divide it into individual portions. Alternatively, you can use resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
Nutrition
Adapted from ruhlman