Papa loves this so much, he renamed it 'Amish Grandpa’s Favorite.'

This Amish Beef and Macaroni Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any family gathering. Rooted in the heart of Amish country, this casserole is a simple yet hearty meal that combines tender beef, savory tomato sauce, and soft macaroni. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it brings everyone to the table, eager to share stories and laughter over a satisfying meal.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a side of crusty bread. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it with a bowl of applesauce or a slice of homemade apple pie. A glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors perfectly, making it a delightful meal for any season.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and tomato mixture, stirring well to combine.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture. If you have picky eaters, consider blending the diced tomatoes for a smoother sauce. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a creamier version, mix in a cup of sour cream before baking. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack work wonderfully as well.