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For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking pasta)
- Salt (for seasoning pasta water)
How to Make Homestyle Beefaroni
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, and then add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Next, stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Mix everything well to combine. Season the sauce with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the flavors time to meld together and develop a rich, deep taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the pasta and sauce are well combined, transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese layer will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, bubbly topping.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once your Beefaroni is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beefaroni
- Customizable Protein: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some extra vegetables by adding finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the beef mixture. They’ll cook down and blend right into the sauce.
- Make it Ahead: Beefaroni is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Then, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
- Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers. Store any uneaten Beefaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later, but be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Why You’ll Love Homestyle Beefaroni
Homestyle Beefaroni is more than just a meal—it’s a comfort food experience. The combination of rich beef, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a warm, satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed by everyone at the table, whether you’re feeding kids, adults, or a crowd of family and friends.
Not only does Beefaroni taste great, but it’s also budget-friendly and quick to make. With ingredients that are pantry staples, it’s easy to whip up a delicious homemade dinner that won’t break the bank. So next time you’re looking for a cozy, classic meal, look no further than this delicious, homemade Beefaroni!
Bon Appétit!
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