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#### Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
1. In a large pot or skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the beef is browned, remove any excess fat and set the meat aside.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
3. In the same pot, add the **diced onion** and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
#### Step 4: Cook the Pasta
6. While the sauce is simmering, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the **elbow macaroni** (or your chosen pasta) according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
#### Step 5: Combine and Simmer
7. Once the sauce has simmered, add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
#### Step 7: Serve and Garnish
9. Serve the dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of **fresh parsley** (if desired).
– **Make It Your Own**: You can easily adjust the recipe to your liking. Try using **ground turkey or chicken** for a lighter version or add **vegetables** like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition.
– **Add Heat**: If you like a little spice, try adding a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or a dash of **hot sauce** to the sauce.
– **Cheese Variety**: While **cheddar** is a classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like **mozzarella** or **parmesan** for a unique flavor twist.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: This dish freezes wonderfully! Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for an easy, comforting meal on a busy day.
This recipe is truly special. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces. The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese is irresistible. And the best part? It’s easy to make, yet it feels like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe even more meaningful to me is the fact that it’s been passed down through generations. My grandma was the heart of our family, and her kitchen was always filled with the comforting aromas of her cooking. This dish was one of her signature meals, and now, I get to continue the tradition.
If you enjoyed this recipe and want more family favorites, be sure to keep getting my recipes! Simply type “YES” below, and you’ll receive more delicious, tried-and-true dishes that have been passed down through the years. I’m so grateful to be able to share these recipes with you, and I hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to mine.
### Enjoy!
