Classic Goulash 🍝✨
A comforting one-pot meal packed with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce—perfect for weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Brown the beef:
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté vegetables:
Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Build the sauce:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Cook the pasta:
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Taste and adjust:
Check the seasoning and adjust as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth.
Serve and garnish:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.