Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day that’s how Southern flavors settle and sing. Make it, cool it, and refrigerate. Heat gently when you are ready to serve.

Is this dish suitable for a slow cooker or crock pot?

Absolutely. Brown the beef and soften the onion first. Then combine ingredients in the crock pot and cook on low. Add pasta near the end so it does not overcook. Slow cooker versions deepen the sauce slowly and offer hands-off comfort.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Watch the cooking time and test a bit before you think it is done. Different pastas have different cooking times. Remove from heat while the pasta is still slightly firm and let it rest covered for a few minutes. That carryover cooking will finish it without making it soft.

How long will leftovers keep?

Store One Pot Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Freeze up to three months for best quality. Reheat gently with an extra splash of broth to refresh the texture.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes. Stir in frozen peas, chopped spinach, or diced carrots toward the end of cooking, so they remain bright and tender. Vegetables add color, nutrition, and the kind of homey balance Southern kitchens appreciate.

One Pot Beefaroni

Name: One Pot Beefaroni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
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)

Description

A comforting and simple Southern dish combining elbow macaroni, ground beef, and tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Cook ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic in a large pot until browned and onions are translucent.
Drain any excess fat if needed, leaving a bit for flavor.
Add tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta. Stir and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste the pasta at about 12 minutes to check for doneness.
Stir in shredded cheese if desired and let it melt before serving.
Serve warm with bread and any additional toppings such as chopped parsley or green onions.

Notes

Use lean beef for a lighter version. Fresh garlic is best, but jarred minced garlic will suffice. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days or frozen for three months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg