American Goulash Beef Macaroni in Tomato Sauce

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American Goulash (Beef & Macaroni in Tomato Sauce)

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground beef (or half beef, half sausage for extra flavor)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for deeper flavor)
  • 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Aromatics:
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add onions and bell pepper, sauté 5 minutes until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook another 1 minute.
  1. Brown the Meat:
  • Add ground beef, break it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned (8–10 minutes).
  • Drain excess fat if necessary.
  1. Season the Base:
  • Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Add tomato paste, mix well, and let it cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  1. Build the Sauce:
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
  • Bring to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes to thicken.
  1. Cook the Pasta:
  • Stir in the uncooked macaroni directly into the sauce.
  • Cover and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
  1. Make it Creamy (Optional):
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy version.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Tips & Variations:

  • Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
  • Cheesy Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella or cheddar, and broil until golden.
  • Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
  • Make-Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Benefits:

  • Hearty and filling one-pot meal.
  • Budget-friendly, using pantry staples.
  • Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
  • Comfort food that kids and adults both love.

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