Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (15oz)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5oz)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beef mixture until evenly mixed.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and optionally add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.