Description
One Pot Beefaroni is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and a blend of Italian seasonings cooked all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Finished with melty cheese and fresh herbs, it delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound Ground Beef (can substitute with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version)
Pasta and Grains
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (alternatives include shells, penne, or rotini)
Liquids and Sauces
- 24 ounces Tomato Sauce (choose a high-quality sauce for best flavor)
- 1 cup Beef Broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 cup Fresh Parsley or Basil (for garnish and freshness)
Cheeses
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (mozzarella or cheddar work well)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan (optional but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomato Sauce, Broth, and Seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth into the pot. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Pasta and Simmer: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, gently pushing it down so it is mostly submerged in the sauce mixture. Bring the contents to a gentle boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate Cheese: When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy consistency throughout the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley or basil for added color and brightness. Serve the One Pot Beefaroni warm and enjoy a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian alternative.
- Replacing elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini works great.
- Using a good-quality tomato sauce enhances the overall flavor significantly.
- Add grated Parmesan for an extra savory twist if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, swap beef broth with vegetable broth and omit meat.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during simmering to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pot.
