American Goulash
Enjoy the comfort of American Goulash, a quick and hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef, pasta, and rich tomatoes. Perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Onions add depth; shallots can be an elegant substitute.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic brings out bold flavors, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- 1 each bell pepper, diced Feel free to swap in a zucchini or any seasonal vegetable for a twist.
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes Choose no-salt added for a healthier version.
- 2 cups beef broth Homemade broth can elevate the flavor, or use vegetable broth for a lighter take.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste For an indulgent treat, use a bit more for that rich, tangy flavor.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni You can use any short pasta, like shells or fusilli.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A fragrant mix that’s essential; you can create your own blend if you prefer.
- to taste salt and pepper These simple seasonings can elevate every dish!
- shredded cheese (optional) Top it off with some mozzarella or cheddar for that gooey finish.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, if necessary, then add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the meat. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, tomato paste, elbow macaroni, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving. Cover for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt.
Notes
For healthier options, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chickpeas for a meatless dish. You can also add fresh spinach or kale for a healthy green element.