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One Pot Beefaroni Recipe

4.6 from 112 reviews

This One Pot Beefaroni recipe is a comforting and hearty meal combining ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Finished with melted cheese, this easy-to-make dish comes together in a single pot, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Italian blend)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook while breaking up the beef with a spoon until the beef is fully browned and the onions become translucent, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
  2. Add Sauce and Pasta: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth or water, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine everything, then add the elbow macaroni, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer to Cook Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors and cook to tender perfection.
  4. Incorporate Cheese: When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheese if using. Allow it to melt smoothly into the mixture to add creaminess and richness to the beefaroni.

Notes

  • Use fresh onion and garlic for a deeper, more vibrant flavor.
  • Stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Check pasta two minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.
  • If the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly, add a splash of broth or water to maintain a saucy consistency.
  • Add cheese gradually to prevent clumping and maintain a creamy texture.
  • Customize with added vegetables, spices, or different cheese blends according to your preference.

Keywords: One Pot Beefaroni, beef and pasta, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, stovetop pasta dish, comfort food, quick meal