Print

Hearty Goulash with Elbow Macaroni

hearty goulash with elbow macaroni - featured image
Print Recipe

A budget-friendly, comforting family dinner featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered in a flavorful sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14.5 ounces (411 g) canned diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces (227 g) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth, low sodium preferred
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1 teaspoon salt)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  4. Add ground beef to the pan. Break it up and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if desired, leaving a little for flavor.
  5. Stir in paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add canned diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if sauce becomes too thick.
  7. Add cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir gently to coat with sauce. Cook together for 2-3 minutes over low heat.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra paprika if desired.
  9. Serve warm. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness when combined with sauce. Leaving a bit of fat after browning beef adds richness. Simmer covered for deeper flavor. Fresh garlic is preferred for best aroma. Adjust seasoning at the end. For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving. Can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for leaner options. Gluten-free pasta or rice/quinoa can be used for gluten-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: goulash, elbow macaroni, ground beef, easy dinner, budget-friendly, family meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/hearty-goulash-with-elbow-macaroni-easy-budget-friendly-family-dinner-recipe/