Description
This easy goulash recipe is a comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner, combining savory spices and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (peeled and diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (seeded and diced)
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce
- 2 (15 ounce) cans of petite diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Vegetables: Add olive oil to a large pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook, stirring often, until the beef is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Simmer the Goulash: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking for about 20 minutes or until the macaroni noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed. Serve immediately while hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the goulash simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for more variety and nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
