This one-pot wonder is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with paprika and Italian herbs, goulash is a family favorite.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Why You’ll Love Making It

• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and keeping things simple on busy nights.
• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this comforting dish is ready in just 45 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Family-Friendly: The rich, savory flavors and hearty ingredients make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and canned tomatoes, this recipe is easy on your wallet.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. lean ground beef or turkey: Use lean meat to avoid excess grease, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth. About 1 medium onion or half of a large one.
• 1 cup finely diced green bell pepper: Adds a slight crunch and a mild peppery flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper: For seasoning the meat and veggies.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish a robust, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon paprika: Use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and a bright tomato flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce (no salt added): Provides a rich, smooth base for the sauce.
• 2 cups low sodium beef or chicken stock: Helps cook the pasta and makes the sauce flavorful. Add more if needed.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a subtle herbal flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Enhances the flavor of the sauce while simmering.
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni (2 heaping cups): Classic pasta choice for goulash; cooks directly in the sauce.
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley for extra flavor and a pop of color.

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat and Veggies
   In a Dutch oven or large skillet, heat over medium-high. Add ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, breaking up the meat into smaller chunks with a spoon, until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic and Spices
   Stir in the minced garlic and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Combine Ingredients for the Sauce
   Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, beef or chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Add the Pasta
   Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Simmer and Cook the Pasta
   Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Add more stock if the mixture seems too thick.
6. Let It Rest
   Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from the heat but keep it covered for 3 minutes. The goulash will thicken as it cools slightly.
7. Finish and Serve
   Discard the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the goulash into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Short pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I freeze goulash?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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