Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that is quick and easy to make? Look no further than this One Pot Beefaroni recipe! Packed with savory flavors and comforting ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of ground beef, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch of this Beefaroni and enjoy it throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef: Provides protein and a meaty flavor. You can use lean or regular ground beef based on your preference.
- Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that cooks up perfectly in this dish.
- Tomato sauce: Adds a rich and tangy flavor to the Beefaroni.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics build a flavorful base for the dish.
- Beef broth or water: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
- Shredded cheese (optional): Adds a creamy and cheesy element to the dish. Mozzarella, cheddar, or an Italian blend work well.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent.
- Add the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth or water, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Cook the pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, ensuring it’s mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the pasta is tender.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in shredded cheese if desired, allowing it to melt into the Beefaroni for extra creaminess.
Helpful Tips:
- Use fresh onion and garlic for the best flavor.
- Stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses.
- Add a splash of broth or water if the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- For a deeper flavor, brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients.
- Use high-quality tomato sauce for a richer taste.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or provolone for a unique twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Beefaroni with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter version of this dish. - Can I freeze the Beefaroni?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. - Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion:
Next time you’re looking for a simple and satisfying meal, give this One Pot Beefaroni recipe a try. With its delicious flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your feedback with us!
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One Pot Beefaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: One Pot & One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Beefaroni recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and cheese for a delicious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth or water
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Italian blend)
Instructions
- Cook Beef and Aromatics: Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic in a pot.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and macaroni; simmer until pasta is tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Notes
- Use fresh onion and garlic for deeper flavor.
- Stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking.
- Check pasta for doneness before suggested time.
- Add liquid if pasta absorbs too quickly.
- Add cheese gradually for a creamy texture.
- Customize with veggies, spices, or different cheeses.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
