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Nostalgic American Goulash

A comforting one-pot meal that combines ground meat, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Meat

  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can use lean ground beef for a lighter dish.

Vegetables

  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds sweetness and aroma.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Brings depth to the sauce.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper, chopped Adds color and crunch.

Tomato Products

  • 1 can (15 ounces) Tomato Sauce Provides moisture and flavor.
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) Diced Tomatoes Adds chunkiness and freshness.

Pasta

  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Absorbs flavors and adds comfort.

Broth and Seasonings

  • 1 cup Beef Broth Enhances flavor and helps cook pasta.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Adds aromatic quality.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing vegetables and meat.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (optional) For a cheesy finish.

Instructions
 

  • Prepare your ingredients: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and measure out the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
  • Cook the ground beef: In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5 to 7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  • Incorporate the tomato products: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes until well combined.
  • Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Cook the pasta: Bring to a gentle boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir well, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.
  • Check for doneness: Taste the goulash to see if the pasta is cooked to your liking. Adjust cooking time if necessary.
  • Serve with cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt.
  • Garnish and enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Notes

Feel free to customize with different vegetables or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
Keyword Easy