Happy National Pasta Day! Celebrate with Cheesy Beefaroni Recipe | Easy One-Pot Comfort Dinner

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal that tastes like childhood nostalgia, this Pasta Beefaroni is exactly what you need. It’s a simple yet hearty dish made with ground beef, tender pasta, tomato sauce, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness. I once made this with penne instead of elbow macaroni and added a pinch of red pepper flakes — it gave it a lovely kick while keeping that classic flavor intact. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this one-pot meal is pure comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta Beefaroni is the perfect combination of ease and flavor. It’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and uses pantry staples. The ground beef adds richness, while the tomato sauce and cheese create a smooth, savory finish. It’s filling, satisfying, and kid-approved — ideal for busy nights or meal prepping. You’ll love how it’s both nostalgic and customizable — you can spice it up, add veggies, or keep it classic.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Elbow Macaroni – The traditional choice for Beefaroni, though any short pasta like penne or shells works.

Ground Beef – The hearty base that gives this dish its meaty flavor. Use lean ground beef for a lighter version.

Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory flavor.

Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the sauce, binding all the flavors together.

Tomato Paste – Adds richness and thickens the sauce.

Crushed Tomatoes – Adds texture and extra tomato flavor.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef and sauce.

Sugar (optional) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.

Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a pop of freshness.

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired. Stir to combine, then let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated. Sprinkle in the cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese on top.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 30 minutes total — 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well — store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Beefaroni Bake: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Spicy Beefaroni: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Vegetable Beefaroni: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer texture.

Turkey Beefaroni: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.

Tex-Mex Style: Add corn, black beans, and taco seasoning for a Southwestern twist.

Italian Beefaroni: Use fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for a more authentic Italian flavor.

One-Pot Version: Cook the pasta directly in the sauce for easier cleanup and extra flavor absorption.

Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Kid-Friendly Twist: Add mini meatballs or cut-up hot dogs for a fun family favorite.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for Beefaroni?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any short pasta like penne or shells works well.

Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?

Yes, a good-quality marinara or meat sauce saves time and still tastes great.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you add heat — it’s naturally mild and family-friendly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can even be frozen for later.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar or mozzarella both melt beautifully and complement the sauce.

How can I make it creamier?

Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream before serving.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, and peas all work perfectly.

What sides go well with Beefaroni?

Serve with garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace the beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it a bit longer or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.

Conclusion

Pasta Beefaroni is the kind of comforting, homey meal that never goes out of style. With its savory beef sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy finish, it’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and deeply satisfying. Quick to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for families, busy nights, or anyone craving a taste of simple comfort. Serve it hot, sprinkle on some cheese, and enjoy a cozy classic that always brings smiles to the table.

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