There is something unmistakably comforting about a big bowl of easy homemade beefaroni. It instantly transports me back to bustling family dinners in my childhood home, where this hearty dish was always the star of a busy weeknight meal. The warm, savory aroma would fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table before the first spoonful even touched the plate.

Beefaroni is more than just a meal; it’s a piece of American culinary tradition. Originally popularized in the mid-20th century as a budget-friendly, satisfying option for growing families, it became a staple in lunchboxes and cafeterias across the country. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food, cherished for its simplicity, quick preparation, and nostalgic flavor. Making your own easy homemade beefaroni at home allows you to enjoy a fresher, more wholesome version of this classic — with all the hearty goodness you remember and none of the preservatives.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty, cheesy dish that soothes the soul, this easy homemade beefaroni will surely become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

HOW TO MAKE Easy Homemade Beefaroni

Making your own easy homemade beefaroni is almost as effortless as opening a can — but the flavor is worlds apart. Every bite is packed with tender beef, flavorful sauce, and gooey, melted cheese.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat to keep your beefaroni from becoming greasy.
3. Season and Simmer: Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Then pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

1. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the rich flavors, about 12–15 minutes.
2. Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Serve Warm: Spoon the beefaroni into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top if desired.

Every time I make this easy homemade beefaroni, it brings back the same warmth I felt sitting at my mother’s kitchen table, the cold outside fading away with every bite of the hot, cheesy pasta.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
• Adjust the broth: If you like it saucier, add an extra splash of broth or tomato sauce.
• Add vegetables: Stir in peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Meal prep: This dish freezes beautifully; just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Kid-friendly

NOTES:

For an even heartier version, substitute some of the beef broth with a splash of vegetable broth for extra depth. You can also experiment with different types of pasta like shells or penne for a fun twist.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Per serving – approximate)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make beefaroni ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats wonderfully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze homemade beefaroni?
Absolutely! Cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Definitely. Ground turkey makes a lighter but still delicious alternative.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store any leftover beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Spinach Lemon Pasta
• Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas
• Crockpot Beef and Noodles
• Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

CONCLUSION:

There is magic in simple dishes, and this easy homemade beefaroni proves it. Whether you grew up eating beefaroni from a can or are discovering it for the first time made from scratch, this recipe offers a cozy, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. Gather around the table and savor the comfort of every cheesy, meaty bite — because some recipes are timeless for a reason.

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