Easy Goulash
A classic one-pot American goulash made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce. It's hearty, cheesy, and ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 lbs ground beef lean preferred
- 3 tsp garlic minced
- 2 cans 15 oz tomato sauce
- 2 cans 15 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- Optional Add-ins:
- Corn peas, or baby spinach
- Ground turkey as a beef substitute
- Sour cream for added creaminess
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 3–4 minutes.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned. Drain fat.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.
- Mix in dry macaroni. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove bay leaves. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it continues softening as it sits.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating leftovers.
- For a creamier version, stir in sour cream or cream cheese at the end.