Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic choice for Beefaroni, but other short pasta like rotini or penne will work as well.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Choose lean beef to avoid excessive grease in your dish.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor and adds a layer of seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano that enhances the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Helps bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
- 28 ounces tomato sauce: The base for the rich, savory sauce that coats the pasta.
Instructions
- Cook the beef and onions: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onions, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon as it browns. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic: Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Season and simmer the sauce: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring everything together. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes), then drain well.
- Combine and serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the beefy tomato sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions for Beefaroni
For a balanced meal, pair Beefaroni with the following sides:
- Garlic bread: A classic side that complements the pasta perfectly.
- Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner