Description
This hearty, one-pot American goulash blends tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce into the ultimate comfort dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a simple yet flavorful classic that’s endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 cups beef broth
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
4. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir well.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
7. Add elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir frequently.
8. Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with parsley. Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
If planning to freeze, slightly undercook pasta to maintain texture when reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Goulash, one-pot pasta, beef goulash