Beefaroni
Beefaroni offers hearty comfort with savory ground beef, flavorful spaghetti sauce, and tender macaroni, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a deep non-stick skillet with a lid.
- Add chopped onion and ground beef; cook over high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped green pepper.
- Stir in bottled minced garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth, add spaghetti sauce, and stir in cooked elbow macaroni.
- Mix until well combined.
- Cover the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook at a gentle boil until macaroni is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. You can also add vegetables like diced carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked pasta and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beefaroni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Potato Soup for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider topping with additional cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This dish also makes a great option for meal prep or a potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Beefaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefaroni contains roughly 1183 calories, with 33g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value) and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for Beefaroni?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta type you choose, as some may take longer or shorter to cook.
Is it possible to make Beefaroni vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or omit it altogether. You can add more vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to maintain a hearty texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Beefaroni for later?
Yes, Beefaroni freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).