One Pot Beefaroni Recipe

If you’ve been on the hunt for a homey, satisfying dinner that’s both quick to make and universally adored, it’s time you met One Pot Beefaroni. This nostalgic classic is packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, a dreamy tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese—all mingling together in a single pot. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile (and maybe even a second helping), perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu family feasts when you crave comfort with minimal cleanup.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pot Beefaroni is that every ingredient pulls its weight—nothing is complicated, and each addition enhances either flavor, texture, or color. Gather your staples, and prepare for savory, cheesy bliss in no time.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef beautifully at the start.
• Ground beef: The star protein, offering heartiness and big flavor that anchors the entire dish.
• Onion (finely diced): Brings gentle sweetness and a touch of depth to the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Delivers aromatic intensity and that classic Italian comfort vibe.
• Tomato sauce: Lends a silky, tangy base that hugs each piece of pasta.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and vibrant tomato flavor to the sauce.
• Beef broth: Infuses the pasta with savory notes while keeping everything moist and flavorful.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that instantly transports you to the heart of a rustic trattoria.
• Paprika: Offers subtle warmth and deepens the color of the finished dish.
• Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life—don’t be shy!
• Black pepper: A little kick to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic noodle shape ensures the perfect bite every time.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into the pasta for ultimate creaminess and comfort.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a sharp, nutty finish that’s hard to resist.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the final dish and adds a pop of color for serving.

How to Make One Pot Beefaroni

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in your biggest pot or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and let it sizzle, breaking it apart with your spoon until it’s browned all over. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it off (just to keep things from getting greasy), but leave a little behind for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

With your beef still in the pot, stir in the finely diced onions and minced garlic. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and the whole kitchen smells deliciously inviting.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Time for the magic! Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so the beef gets nicely coated with all those flavorful liquids and spices.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Now pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Give it all a good stir to make sure the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture up to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Once boiling, drop the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The pasta absorbs all the saucy goodness and everything thickens up deliciously. Check to make sure the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been soaked up.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. It melts right into the noodles and sauce, making the One Pot Beefaroni creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Finish with a generous scatter of fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Beefaroni

Garnishes

A flourish of chopped fresh parsley does wonders for color and freshness. For a little extra decadence, add a dusting of Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Even a dollop of ricotta or a swirl of olive oil can make this dish feel extra special.

Side Dishes

One Pot Beefaroni is hearty enough to stand alone, but a simple green salad or some crisp garlic bread makes the meal memorable. Sautéed green beans or roasted broccoli bring color and balance to the table, while a quick cucumber salad cools the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your serving: spoon the beefaroni into individual bowls and top with extra cheese for a bubbling finish under the broiler, or serve it in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm. For parties, try turning it into mini casseroles—kids and adults will love the personal-sized portions!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Beefaroni keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each bite even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

If you love having ready-to-go meals, divide cooled beefaroni into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months. For the best texture, freeze before adding the fresh parsley garnish, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until everything is heated through and the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne all work great in place of elbow macaroni—just keep an eye on the liquid and adjust simmer time as needed for the best texture.

Is it possible to make One Pot Beefaroni with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can easily be swapped in for the beef. Just be mindful that these are leaner meats, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil or even a splash of beef broth to keep things juicy and flavorful.

How can I make One Pot Beefaroni a little spicier?

If you like things with a kick, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the spices, or opt for a spicier paprika. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who want extra heat.

What cheeses can I use instead of cheddar and Parmesan?

This dish is super cheese-friendly! Try mozzarella for gooeyness, or a blend of Monterey Jack and provolone for a different flavor profile. Pecorino Romano is a wonderful stand-in for Parmesan, adding a sharper bite.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Just use a bigger pot and make sure to stir frequently as the pasta cooks to prevent sticking. Double the ingredients and prepare to make everyone at your table seriously happy with your One Pot Beefaroni.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dish that always brings comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s One Pot Beefaroni. I can’t recommend it enough for busy evenings or anytime you crave something hearty, cheesy, and handmade with love. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becomes your family’s new favorite, too!

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