Description
One Pot Goulash is a hearty and comforting American classic that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with paprika and Italian herbs. This easy stovetop meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering satisfying flavor with minimal cleanup. Topped optionally with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a family-friendly dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Optional Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary to avoid excess fat in the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant, which builds the foundational flavor.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning over the beef and aromatics. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling mixture and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender and the flavors meld.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated for a creamy finish.
- Serve: Spoon the goulash into bowls or plates, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter, leaner alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheat well, making this a convenient next-day lunch option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
