Description
A hearty, comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce—this old-fashioned goulash is a nostalgic classic perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is tender and sauce is thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
- Serve hot straight from the pot.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Replace beef with lentils or plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Top with mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different twist.
Freezes well—portion leftovers and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
