My grandma taught me this recipe, and I make it all year long!.

Instructions:

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 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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 6: Add the Cheese

8. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. This will make the dish extra creamy and comforting.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

9. Serve the dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if desired).

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe:

• 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.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

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.

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Enjoy!

This dish is a testament to the power of food to bring people together. It’s about more than just filling your stomach—it’s about creating memories, keeping traditions alive, and sharing love through every bite. Whether it’s for a special family gathering or a regular weeknight dinner, this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope it becomes just as special for you and your family, too!