When it comes to quick, filling dinners, few dishes can compete with One Pot Goulash. This hearty recipe combines tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this goulash is a comforting dish that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Incorporate the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and creamy.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Serving Tips:
Garnish: Enhance the presentation by garnishing your goulash with fresh parsley or basil before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Accompaniments: Serve the goulash with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side salad can also complement the dish nicely.
Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the goulash in individual bowls, topped with additional cheese and parsley.
Hot Sauce: If you enjoy a bit of heat, provide hot sauce on the side for those who want to spice up their servings.
Storage Tips:
Cool Down: Allow the goulash to cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make the dish watery.
Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Glass containers are a great option as they don’t retain odors.
Refrigeration: Goulash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide it into meal-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I add vegetables to my goulash?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the pasta.
What can I serve with One Pot Goulash?
One Pot Goulash pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of additional cheese on top just before serving can also enhance the dish.
How do I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Store leftover goulash in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and add a splash of broth or water if it appears dry.
Conclusion:
One Pot Goulash is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its simple preparation and delicious flavors make it an excellent choice for any night of the week. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty meal with minimal fuss!
📖 Recipe:
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One Pot Goulash
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4-6 servings
Description
Enjoy a comforting and hearty One Pot Goulash made with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce. This easy weeknight meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy families. One pot means less cleanup, and the melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy finish that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Customize with your choice of vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding broth or water if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4-6 servings
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
Keywords: One Pot Goulash, Easy Goulash Recipe, Ground Beef Recipes, Comfort Food, Quick Dinner, One-Pot Meals, Family-Friendly Recipes
