Description
Rich and hearty American goulash delivers comfort on a plate with ground beef, pasta, and tomato-based sauce. Midwestern home cooks appreciate this classic one-pot meal you can savor with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1 (15 oz/425 g) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz/425 g) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sear ground beef in a large pot over medium heat (375°F), crumbling meat while cooking. Eliminate accumulated grease thoroughly.
- Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Pour tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and spice blend into the pot. Gently raise temperature until mixture reaches a gentle bubbling state.
- Introduce uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the liquid, stirring to distribute evenly. Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and allow contents to simmer for 12-15 minutes.
- Periodically check pasta’s tenderness, ensuring liquid is gradually absorbing. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Once pasta reaches al dente consistency and liquid has mostly disappeared, remove from heat. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese across surface, allowing residual warmth to melt dairy topping.
- Let dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a cleaner, more robust flavor profile.
- Try lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier protein alternative that still delivers rich taste.
- Consider using gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top for a bright, fresh finish that enhances visual appeal and adds a subtle herb note.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 421 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg