Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), water, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Bring to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir to distribute evenly.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the macaroni is tender and sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired, let it melt, and serve hot.
Notes
Use lean ground beef for a lighter version or add half sausage for richer flavor.
Substitute half the water with beef broth for added depth.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
Top with extra cheese before serving for a creamy finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg