American Goulash
A comforting and hearty one-pot meal made with pasta, ground beef, and savory spices, perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef (lean) The star of the show, providing a juicy and hearty base.
- 1 medium Onion (diced) Adds a slight sweetness and aromatic balance.
- 1 medium Green bell pepper (diced) Introduces a refreshing crunch and mild flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic infuses delicious aroma and depth to the dish.
- 2 cups Elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape) Soft and comforting, the pasta soaks up all the flavors.
- 1 can Diced tomatoes (with juice) Juicy and tangy, adding moisture and freshness.
- 15 ounces Tomato sauce A rich, thick backdrop that unites all ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning A delightful mix of herbs that adds warmth and fragrance.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential condiments to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese (grated) The finishing touch, providing creaminess and a delicious cheesy layer.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart using a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Introduce the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the tomato sauce to develop a beautiful sauce.
- Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the meat sauce.
- Gently stir the cooked macaroni into the sauce.
- Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese on top. Stir it in until it melts and combines with the dish.
- Once everything is combined and heated through, serve and enjoy!
Notes
For added flavor, consider Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. For more veggies, add corn, peas, or mushrooms. Cook the beef and veggies ahead for quicker prep.