Goulash (American Style) with Macaroni

A hearty, one-pot comfort dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This American-style goulash is perfect for weeknight dinners and feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.

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Ingredients:

• 500g ground beef

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 400g canned diced tomatoes

• 300g tomato sauce (or passata)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 250ml beef broth or water

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 250g elbow macaroni

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef and Veggies
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Sauce Ingredients
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the Macaroni
   Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Finish and Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

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Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 520 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 48 g

• Fat: 24 g

• Protein: 30 g