Johnny Marzetti Beef and Macaroni Casserole

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente (between 10 and 12 minutes). Drain well.

3. Step 3

   Return the macaroni to the pot and toss with 1 teaspoon of oil to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

4. Step 4

   Gather the minced garlic into a small pile on a cutting board and sprinkle it with kosher salt. Using a chef's knife, press down on the salt and grind it with the garlic to form a coarse paste. Set aside.

5. Step 5

   In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 5 minutes, until softened.

6. Step 6

   Add the celery and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes or until the mushrooms are releasing their juices.

7. Step 7

   Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned with no pink remaining.

8. Step 8

   Add the red wine and deglaze the skillet, allowing the wine to cook down and evaporate, about 5 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a large baking dish with butter.

10. Step 10

    Squeezing through your fingers, add the tomatoes and their juices to the beef mixture.

11. Step 11

    Stir in the garlic paste, several grinds of black pepper, oregano, and basil.

12. Step 12

    Transfer the meat and tomatoes to the pot with the cooked macaroni, and combine with all but 1 cup of the grated cheddar cheese.

13. Step 13

    Transfer everything to the buttered baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top.

14. Step 14

    Bake uncovered 35 to 40 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is nicely browned on top.

15. Step 15

    Wait 10 minutes for the casserole to settle, then serve.

16. Step 16

    Enjoy!