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Comforting One-Pot Goulash with Elbow Macaroni

one-pot goulash - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot goulash combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce for a warm, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 2 cups (200g) dry elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 15 oz (425g) canned tomato sauce
  • 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Push the beef to one side and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Add dry elbow macaroni, ensuring pasta is submerged in liquid; add extra broth or water if needed.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Pasta should be tender but not mushy.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover again for 2 minutes to melt.
  7. Serve warm, optionally with garlic bread or a simple salad.

Notes

Brown the meat well for best flavor. Use broth instead of water for richer taste. Keep the lid on while simmering to cook pasta evenly. Stir gently and regularly to prevent sticking. Adjust seasoning last as tomato sauce saltiness varies. If pasta is undercooked after 18 minutes, add more broth and cook longer. If too watery, cook uncovered briefly to reduce liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot goulash, elbow macaroni, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, quick weeknight meal