Poverty Meal

When I was a child, my family used to eat this at least once a week due to the fact that it is inexpensive and a little goes a long way. We also added fresh herbs or sometimes whole kernel corn. Its even better the next day and it freezes well.
Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
• 2 (16 ounce) cans stewed tomatoes
• 1 (16 ounce) can water
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Saute onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
2. Brown ground beef and drain.
3. Add ground beef, tomatoes, water, raw macaroni, salt and pepper to the onion and garlic mixture.
4. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
5. If desired, top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve with crusty bread and a salad.