Step 1

Place a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, diced onion, chopped garlic, chopped celery and chopped carrot. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, for the veggies to become soft and the onion translucent. Transfer to a bowl.

Step 2

Place the skillet back on the high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the meat is brown and beautifully caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add balsamic vinegar, stir to combine. Return the vegetables to the ground beef, add the canned tomatoes, 1 cup of water, bay leaf, dried oregano, black pepper (to taste) and cover with a lid. Cook for about 20 minutes.

Step 3

Cook the macaroni according to instructions on the package. When the macaroni are cooked, drain them and reserve 50 ml of cooking water.

Step 4

Season the Ground Beef sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Add a tablespoon of chopped parsley and stir to combine. Remove the bay leaf and add the cooked macaroni and reserved water. Stir to combine. Arrange the grated cheese on top, cover with a lid and cook over very low heat for about 2 - 3 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted. Divide between four plates and serve.