Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor — this Easy Goulash is the perfect weeknight meal that comes together in under an hour! Tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce make it a dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Flavor
Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add Pasta
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Cheese (Optional)
If you like it cheesy, stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a green salad.
Tips & Variations
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian version: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
- Make it ahead: Tastes even better the next day as flavors blend together!
