One Pot Beefaroni

This One Pot Beefaroni is a cozy, cheesy family dinner made with ground beef and macaroni simmered right in a rich tomato sauce. It is easy, budget friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food and kitchen memories all in one pot.

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Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: easy beefaroni recipe, family comfort food, homemade beefaroni, One Pot Beefaroni, one pot pasta dinner

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 35

Servings: servings

Calories: 520kcal

Cost: $15

Equipment

1 Large deep skillet or Dutch oven Needs a lid so the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce
1 Wooden spoon Gentle on cookware and perfect for kids to help stir
1 Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

1.5 pounds ground beef 80/20 works best for flavor
1 medium onion finely diced
3 cloves garlic minced
3 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
1 can tomato sauce 15 ounces
1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces with juices
2 cups beef broth
1 cup water
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon sugar balances acidity
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional
salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef with onion until browned and the onion is soft. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, water, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
Bring the sauce to a boil. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and optional mozzarella until melted and creamy. Let rest a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens.
Scoop into bowls and serve warm, enjoying together with family.

Notes

Stir often while the pasta cooks to keep it from sticking
For a Chef Boyardee style copycat, use mild cheddar and add an extra pinch of sugar
Swap ground beef for ground turkey if you want a lighter version
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months and reheats beautifully with a splash of broth

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