1-Brown the Base: In a skillet, cook 1 pound ground beef, 1/2 cup chopped onion, and 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic until tender. Drain excess fat.

2-Cook Pasta: Boil 2 cups uncooked macaroni per package directions. Drain well.

3-Mix Sauce: Stir into drained beef: 10.5-oz cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/4 tsp thyme, and 4-oz can mushrooms (drained).

4-Layer First Half: In a 2-quart casserole dish, add half the hamburger mixture, half the macaroni, and half the 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar (save some for top).

5-Repeat Layers: Layer remaining hamburger mixture, macaroni, and cheese.

6-Bake: Uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

7-Final Touch: Sprinkle reserved cheese on top. Bake until melted, about 5 more minutes. Let rest before serving.