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Goulash

Irresistibly Easy Goulash: Your New One-Pot Comfort Food

This Easy Goulash combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a vibrant tomato sauce for a comforting dish ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegan option.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Canned Tomatoes Fresh diced tomatoes work well for a fresher taste.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Garlic powder is a suitable alternative in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can amplify flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs like basil or oregano are great substitutes.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
For Added Veggies
  • 2 pieces Bell Peppers Any variety works, or use seasonal zucchini for a twist.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Goulash
  1. Begin by dicing one medium onion, two bell peppers, and three cloves of garlic. Gather your ground beef, elbow macaroni, canned tomatoes, and seasonings.
  2. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add one pound of ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  4. Mix in one can of diced tomatoes, a teaspoon of paprika, and a tablespoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of elbow macaroni with enough water or broth to cover the pasta by about an inch.
  6. Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  7. After the pasta has cooked, taste and adjust seasoning. If too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Serve hot in wide bowls and enjoy garnished with fresh herbs or your favorite toppings. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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