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Hearty Goulash with Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

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4 from 10 reviews

This hearty and comforting Goulash recipe combines tender ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and elbow macaroni in a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with paprika and Italian herbs. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights and sure to satisfy the whole family.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 to 1.5 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 1/2 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks, cooking until browned and cooked through with no pink remaining.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, black pepper, and the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  4. Simmer Pasta and Sauce: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is al dente and has absorbed much of the liquid.
  5. Add Cheese and Serve: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot until melted and fully incorporated. Serve the goulash hot for a warm, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Use 80% lean ground beef for best flavor and texture; leaner beef may make the dish dryer.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the seasoning.
  • Low sodium beef broth allows better control over saltiness; adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Elbow macaroni cooks faster and has the perfect texture for this one-pot goulash.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove or microwave.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: One-Pot Meal
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/hearty-goulash-with-macaroni-and-cheddar-recipe/