Homemade Beefaroni

This Homemade Beefaroni takes the classic canned version to the next level with a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish made from scratch. Packed with ground beef, pasta, and a savory sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy finish and zesty seasoning create a dish that will be loved by kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Beefaroni is the perfect combination of hearty beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce—all made from scratch! The blend of Italian seasoning and garlic gives it a savory depth, while the touch of heavy cream adds a creamy texture that takes this dish to the next level. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s not only easy to make but full of flavor. This homemade version is much tastier than the canned variety, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Beefaroni:

• 1 pound ground beef

• ½ cup onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 24-ounce jar spaghetti sauce

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 8 ounces ziti

• 2 ½ cups beef broth

• ½ cup heavy cream

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Cook the Beef and Onions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Discard any excess fat.

Add the Tomato Paste and Sauce:

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to combine.

2. Add the spaghetti sauce and sugar. Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Add the dried ziti and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to make sure the pasta is covered with liquid.

2. Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Finish the Dish:

1. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes to thicken and combine the flavors.

Serve:

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Cheesy Beefaroni: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of the dish during the last 5 minutes of cooking, letting it melt into the sauce for a cheesy twist.

• Spicy Beefaroni: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef and vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian while keeping all the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stove with a little splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute the ziti with any other short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Both options will provide a leaner alternative while still giving you a flavorful dish.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

To check if the pasta is done, simply taste a piece. It should be tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). If it needs more time, let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Beefaroni in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Brown the beef and onions, then transfer to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients (except for the heavy cream). Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream toward the end, and cook for another 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Homemade Beefaroni is a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. The rich, savory sauce and tender pasta will satisfy your hunger and warm you up on a chilly evening. This homemade version is a big upgrade from the canned variety and is sure to become a family favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal with this easy recipe!

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