Easy Beefaroni – Comfort Food Classic

Dive into a bowl of pure nostalgia with this Easy Beefaroni recipe! A beloved comfort food classic, this dish combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner that will transport you straight back to childhood.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, water, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.