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Old-Fashioned Goulash

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A hearty, nostalgic one-pot meal of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce—this old-fashioned goulash is cozy, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or small pasta)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, and paprika, coating the meat.
  6. Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and broth; bring to a simmer.
  7. Add macaroni, cover, and cook on medium-low for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let sit off heat for a few minutes to thicken.
  9. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar and parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine during step 6.
  • For a spicy kick, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms when sautéing onions.
  • Stir in cream cheese or top with melted mozzarella for a creamy finish.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and broth to make this dish gluten-free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/old-fashioned-goulash/