Description
This Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal packed with hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s a budget-friendly dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups (200 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the ground beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
2. Sauté the aromatics
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the sauce and seasonings
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the macaroni
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well.
- Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the cheese (optional)
- If desired, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover the pot for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
6. Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Goulash reheats well! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Variations: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra veggies.
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.