Another heirloom recipe from my mom’s recipe box! Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, meaty, noodle-y goodness when you want to eat something that will stick to your ribs.

This is attributed to “Mom P.” I asked my Uncle Mike if this might be a reference to her Aunt Pauline, but he didn’t recognize it, so this might have been a mother-like friend to her. I’ve added the seasoning and garnish below, as they weren’t mentioned in the original. Feel free to edit to your own taste.

Serves 6.

1 lb. ground hamburger or turkey
1/2 c. onions, chopped
1/2 c. celery, chopped
1/2 c. green pepper, chopped
1 c. tomatoes, diced (about 1 beefheart or 2 medium romas)
1 tbsp. parsley
1 tbsp. basil
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 c. black olives, chopped
1/2 lb. sliced or grated cheddar cheese
2 c. cooked noodles, rotini or other short pasta shape (1 box)
Optional: 1/2 c. green onions, chopped

Cook the noodles if you haven’t already.

Brown the hamburger and pour off the grease, then add the onion, celery, green pepper, tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for about 20 minutes. 

Add the olives and cheese, then the noodles. Stir everything together and serve with green onions if desired.