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Cozy One-Pot Nostalgic American Goulash

A comforting one-pot meal featuring seasoned beef, tender pasta, and zesty tomatoes, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula until evenly cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are softened, around 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Add the elbow macaroni alongside the Italian seasonings, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
  5. Once the pasta is tender, serve the goulash hot, garnished with optional grated cheese if desired.

Notes

For substitutions, replace ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.