Name: One Pot Beefaroni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 cups beef broth or water; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

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This One Pot Beefaroni is a quick, satisfying meal that brings together ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all in a single pan. It’s one of my favorite comfort food dinners—easy to make, kid-friendly, and packed with nostalgic flavor. I love how everything cooks together for minimal mess and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, filling, and incredibly cozy. It reminds me of the classic canned version, but making it from scratch gives me control over the ingredients and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty without dirtying a sink full of dishes. The pasta soaks up all the beefy tomato goodness, and the result is a cheesy, saucy, one-pot wonder. One Pot Beefaroni

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Elbow macaroni
Yellow onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Tomato sauce
Tomato paste
Beef broth or water
Worcestershire sauce
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

I heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
I sauté the chopped onion for a few minutes until it starts to soften, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
I add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. I drain off any excess grease.
I stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
I pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a simmer.
Once it’s bubbling, I stir in the uncooked macaroni. I reduce the heat slightly, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick.
When the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened, I remove it from heat.
I sometimes stir in shredded cheese or sprinkle it on top before serving for an extra gooey finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people. It takes around 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.

Variations

I’ve swapped the beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
For a veggie boost, I sometimes add diced bell peppers or zucchini when cooking the onions.
I occasionally stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
To spice it up, I add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.
I use different pasta shapes like rotini or shells if that’s what I have on hand.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

To freeze, I let it cool completely and then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. One Pot Beefaroni

FAQs

Can I use canned pasta sauce instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, I’ve used jarred pasta sauce before—it adds extra flavor and makes the recipe even faster. I just reduce the salt if the sauce is already seasoned.

Will the pasta overcook if left on the stove too long?

Yes, I keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is just tender, I remove it from heat to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I make it ahead and reheat it when needed—it’s even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! The mild, cheesy beef and pasta combo is one I make when I want a guaranteed clean plate from picky eaters.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I just skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. The dish is still flavorful and hearty on its own.

Conclusion

This One Pot Beefaroni is the kind of comforting, no-fuss dinner I rely on when I need something fast, filling, and family-approved. It’s warm, saucy, and cheesy with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for any night of the week. I love how nostalgic it feels, and it’s one of those recipes I know I’ll be making again and again.