1 lb. ground beef
1/2 c. chopped onions
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp. chili powder (or more to taste)
2 1/4 c. hot water
1 pkg. macaroni and cheese dinner
1 (14 1/2 oz.) can tomatoes, chopped or 2 med. tomatoes, chopped
1 (17 oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained

Juice from the tomatoes and corn may be substituted for part of the water.

Brown ground beef in 3 quart saucepan, drain. Add onions and garlic and saute lightly until onions are becoming clear. Don't over cook. Add liquid, bring to boil. Stir in macaroni, tomatoes and corn. Simmer uncovered, over medium heat, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in contents of cheese mix packet; serve immediately, or make ahead of time and reheat. Serves 4.

You may make your own variations of this dish. Add 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (sauteed with onions), a dash of hot pepper, or a couple of stalks of celery, etc.