Nostalgic American Goulash Dish (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
02 -
1 medium onion, diced
03 -
1 green bell pepper, diced
04 -
1 pound ground beef, 90% lean
05 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
06 -
2 ½ cups beef broth
07 -
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
08 -
1 can (15 oz) petite diced tomatoes, undrained
09 -
1 ½ cups uncooked macaroni noodles
10 -
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
11 -
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
12 -
2 bay leaves
13 -
1 teaspoon paprika
14 -
½ teaspoon salt
15 -
½ teaspoon pepper
16 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat.
02 -
Add diced onion, bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
03 -
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
04 -
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
05 -
Turn the heat back up to medium-high. Add the uncooked macaroni noodles to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
06 -
Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
07 -
Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
The consistency should be hearty and slightly saucy—not overly thick like a casserole but not runny like a soup. The cheese will help thicken it. If the sauce looks dry, add ¼ cup beef broth or water.