One pot Italian Casserole

So on days like today, cold and snowy, a good casserole can really hit the spot.  This recipe is amazing!  The flavors that your taste buds will adore is incredible! 

What I used:
1 lb. ground beef
1tbs. minced garlic (in the jar)
1 can (14.5oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (14.5oz.) beef broth
1 cup water
2 cups macaroni pasta, uncooked
1 green bell pepper, sliced into chunks
1 can (6oz.) tomato paste
a hint of Italian seasoning
shredded cheese of your choice to top it all off

Brown your meat with your garlic until meat is cooked through.  Add tomatoes, broth and water, mix well.  Bring to a boil.  Add your pasta and pepper; mix well.  Cover and reduce heat to med.; simmer for 15 min. or until pasta is tender.  Add your tomato paste and Italian seasoning; mix well.  Top with your choice of cheese!

From our table to yours, bon appetite!

Shepherds Pie

I have had this dish many times but had never put my mind to making it....honestly I don't know why! It was a wonderful hit with the family! Even my two year old was asking for more and that is a rare occasion! It sure does "hit the spot" on those cold wintry days.

What I used:
1lb. ground beef (for a healthier option you can use turkey)
1/2 bag of frozen mixed veggies
3/4 cup beef broth
2tsp. Worcester sauce
12 red potatoes, peeled, quartered and cooked

Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees. Get your potatoes in your pot to boil. If you don't have much time I am sure you can also use the boxed potatoes and make your recipe even easier! While the potatoes are cooking put brown your beef until cooked through. While your beef is browning add your broth, Worcester sauce and veggies. Cook until the meat is brown. Now, back to your potatoes. Make up your mashed potatoes how you normally do. I added a dash of garlic powder just for some added flavor. Take a baking dish (depending on your family size) I used a dish just a little smaller then a 9x13. Spray with cooking spray. Add your meat and veggie mixture. Top with your mashed potatoes. Bake uncovered for 30 min., until the mixture is bubbly or the potatoes are browned.
From our table to yours, bon appetite!















This photo was taken just before the Shepherd's Pie went into the oven.