Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, one-pot dish that combines ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings. It’s a simple, hearty, and family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove any excess grease, if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- If the mixture gets too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is rich, serve the goulash hot.
- Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Meat: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add in some diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese: For a cheesy goulash, stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American