Creamy, comforting, and wildly satisfying, Beefaroni is a simple skillet dinner that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory browned beef, and a rich tomato sauce finished with gooey melted cheese.
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4servings
Equipment
Large Pot
Large Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Pasta
2cupsElbow Macaroni, dry
Meat
1poundGround Beef, 80/20No need to pre-season
Sauce
2cupsTomato SauceCanned or homemade, room temperature
Cheese
1cupShredded CheeseCheddar or a blend, shredded
Instructions
Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Use plenty of salted water so the macaroni is seasoned. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
Drain any excess fat from the beef. Return the beef to the skillet and add the tomato sauce. Stir to combine, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture in a large mixing bowl. Stir well so every noodle is coated in sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Top the mixture with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving. You can cover the skillet briefly to speed melting or place under a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes.
Notes
For added flavor, consider topping with fresh basil or a sprinkle of garlic powder. This dish reheats beautifully and is great for leftovers.