-
1
Bring the water with salt to a boil.
-
2
Add the macaroni; stir and simmer until tender, about 5 minutes.
-
3
Do not overcook.
-
4
Drain and rinse under cold water.
-
5
In a skillet, heat the oil and add the onions, celery, green pepper and garlic.
-
6
Cook, stirring, until wilted.
-
7
Add the meat, salt and pepper.
-
8
Cook, stirring, until the meat loses its red color.
-
9
Add the oregano, basil and tomatoes.
-
10
Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes.
-
11
Add the cooked macaroni.
-
12
Blend well and set aside.
-
13
Keep warm.
-
14
Preheat the broiler to high.
-
15
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan, and stir in the flour with a wire whisk until well-blended.
-
16
Add the milk, stirring rapidly, and bring to a simmer.
-
17
Cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes.
-
18
Remove the sauce from the heat, and stir in the Cheddar cheese, cayenne, nutmeg, and more salt and pepper to taste.
-
19
Stir until the cheese melts.
-
20
Preheat broiler.
-
21
Spoon the macaroni mixture into a baking dish measuring 7 by 10 by 2 1/2 inches.
-
22
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the macaroni mixture.
-
23
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and place under the broiler (about 4 to 5 inches from the heat source) until it is hot, bubbling and lightly browned.