Name: One Pot Beefaroni Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth or water; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Italian blend)

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Introduction

One Pot Beefaroni is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce all in one pot. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without a lot of cleanup.

A white bowl holds a layered dish with cooked elbow macaroni pasta, which is yellow-orange and glossy, mixed evenly with a brown, crumbly ground meat sauce with some visible small red bits, likely tomatoes or peppers. On top, there is a small spoonful of finely chopped green herbs for garnish and a yellow square piece of butter sitting on one side. The bowl rests on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent.
Step 2: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth or water. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to combine. Add the elbow macaroni, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Step 4: Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheese if using. Allow it to melt smoothly into the mixture before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels or substitute water for a lighter version.
Try different pasta shapes like shells or rotini if elbow macaroni isn’t available.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Storage

Store leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce and feels dry.

How to Serve

The image shows a white pot filled with a mixture of elbow macaroni pasta and ground beef cooked in a reddish-brown sauce. The macaroni is tender and coated in the thick sauce, with small pieces of beef evenly spread throughout. A wooden spoon is stirring the dense, hearty mix, showing the creamy texture of the sauce clinging to the pasta and meat. The pot is sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. Just brown it thoroughly as you would with beef.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and check that your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free as well.