When comfort food calls, Beefaroni is the answer. This cheesy, beefy pasta dish is the ultimate nostalgic dinner that brings everyone to the table. Whether you grew up on the canned version or you’re discovering it for the first time, this homemade take is packed with hearty flavor and creamy, cheesy goodness that’ll have you skipping the boxed stuff for good.

With tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and loads of melted cheddar cheese, this one-pot meal is not only budget-friendly but also lightning-fast for busy weeknights. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps both kids and adults happy—no fancy ingredients, just real comfort in a bowl.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Classic elbow macaroni is the go-to choice for Beefaroni. Its hollow center holds the sauce beautifully and provides that signature texture. However, feel free to use medium shells, cavatappi, or even rotini if that’s what you have in your pantry. The goal is to have pasta that grabs onto the meaty, cheesy sauce with every bite.

Ingredients for the Beefaroni

Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing protein and a rich, savory base.
Elbow macaroni: Holds the sauce perfectly and cooks quickly.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, giving you that signature cheesy pull.
Tomato sauce: Forms the rich, tangy backdrop for the beef and pasta.
Onion and garlic: Build aromatic depth and flavor from the very first sizzle.
Paprika and Italian seasoning: Adds a warm, herby kick that balances the richness.
Beef broth: Helps meld all the flavors and keeps the mixture creamy without drying out.
Salt and pepper: Essential to season each layer of the dish.

How To Make the Beefaroni

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir in paprika and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.

Step 5: Make it Cheesy

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt for a few minutes. Stir to mix the melted cheese throughout, then serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Beefaroni

Beefaroni is best enjoyed hot and melty right out of the pan. Serve it straight from the stovetop for a rustic, cozy meal. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.

To freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for meal prepping.

What to Serve With Beefaroni?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for scooping up cheesy bits.

Caesar Salad

The creamy dressing and crisp romaine balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Green Beans

A healthy, crunchy contrast to the cheesy pasta.

Sauteed Zucchini

Light and buttery zucchini rounds out the meal with a tender bite.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a bright, cooling side.

Buttered Corn

Sweet, juicy corn pairs well with savory beef flavors.

Pickled Vegetables

Their tang cuts through the richness like a dream.

Apple Slices

Yes—a sweet crunch can complement cheesy, hearty dishes surprisingly well.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this beefy, cheesy comfort classic, check out these other warm and satisfying favorites:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe: Creamy, savory, and ultra-comforting.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta: One-pot magic with rich, velvety sauce.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce: A flavor bomb in pasta form.
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta: Beefy, cheesy, and totally crave-worthy.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Classic family dinner vibes all the way.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra cheesy? Swap the pasta? Add spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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