Macaroni and Round Steak is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines macaroni pasta, tender round steak, tomatoes, cheese, and other seasonings. This dish has its roots in traditional American home cooking, showcasing a blend of Italian pasta with American ingredients. The combination of macaroni, round steak, and a rich tomato-based sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal that has stood the test of time.

Macaroni itself has a long history, with origins dating back to ancient times in Italy and the Mediterranean region. It gained popularity in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a staple ingredient in American kitchens. The blending of macaroni with various meats and sauces became a common practice, reflecting the fusion of culinary traditions brought by immigrants to America.

Round steak, a cut of beef from the rear end of the cow, has been a cherished ingredient in American cuisine for its tenderness and versatility. It was often used in recipes that required slow cooking or braising to achieve optimal flavor and texture.

The recipe for Macaroni and Round Steak likely evolved over time as home cooks experimented with different combinations of ingredients to create delicious and satisfying meals for their families. The use of ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and breadcrumbs added depth and flavor to the dish.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 package macaroni
• 1/2 can tomatoes
• 3 tablespoonfuls Crisco (or cooking oil of choice)
• 2 onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cupful grated cheese
• 1 lb. round steak
• 1/2 cupful breadcrumbs

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preparing the Macaroni:
   • Break the macaroni into inch lengths.
   • In a pot of boiling water, add 1 tablespoonful of Crisco and the broken macaroni.
   • Boil the macaroni for twenty minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Preparing the Round Steak and Onions:
   • Pass the round steak and onions through a food chopper to finely chop them.
3. Assembling the Dish:
   • Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature.
   • Grease a fireproof baking dish with Crisco.
   • Place the boiled macaroni into the greased dish.
4. Layering the Ingredients:
   • Spread the chopped round steak and onions over the macaroni.
   • Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Spread the canned tomatoes over the steak and onions.
   • Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
5. Baking:
   • Melt the remaining Crisco and drizzle it over the breadcrumbs.
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
6. Cooking:
   • Bake the dish in the moderate oven for about one hour, or until the top is golden brown and the ingredients are cooked through.
7. Serving:
   • Remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve the Macaroni and Round Steak with a side of your choice, such as a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy this classic and comforting Macaroni and Round Steak dish that brings together the flavors of tender meat, pasta, tomatoes, and cheese in a delightful blend of textures and tastes.