Description
This American Goulash is a classic one-pot comfort dish made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for cozy family dinners or easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or lean)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth or water
2 bay leaves
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Season: Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, soy sauce (if using), and tomato paste. Cook 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
- Add Liquids: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add bay leaves and stir well. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in uncooked macaroni. Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Finish: Remove bay leaves and stir in shredded cheese if desired until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
For a smoky kick, use smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For extra cheesiness, mix in mozzarella or Colby Jack with cheddar.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
