This easy goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, making it both hearty and flavorful. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors, and you can add a bit of cheddar cheese for extra creaminess if desired.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water or beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for an extra creamy texture.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
