Description
This comforting Ground Beef Goulash is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onions, and aromatic spices. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base & Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is softened and fragrant, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to develop rich flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the simmering pot. Stir well to combine. Cover and cook over low to medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.
- Final touches and serve: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Drain the cooked ground beef well to avoid excess grease in the final dish.
- Stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the paprika.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
