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Classic American Goulash

A comforting one-pot meal made with pasta, ground meat, and a flavorful blend of spices, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey Choose your preference
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) Enhances flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • to taste grated cheese for topping (optional)

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, around 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and bring to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the liquid.
  5. Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.

Notes

For added nutrition, consider incorporating extra veggies like peas or mushrooms. Allow longer simmering time for richer flavors. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or shredded cheese for a creamier texture before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.