Only Goulash: Your New Favorite One-Pot Comfort Dish

Only Goulash is a hearty, one-pot wonder combining tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and rich tomato sauce for a comforting meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Beef

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

Base

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with vegetable oil.
1 medium Onion Chopped; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is recommended, but powdered can be used.
1 pound Ground Beef Lean preferred; ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.

Pasta and Sauce

1.5 cups Elbow Macaroni Cavatappi or penne can be substituted.
2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
15 ounces Tomato Sauce High-quality canned tomatoes recommended.
14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes With juices.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce for vegetarian option.
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Substitute with oregano and basil if necessary.
1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.

Seasoning and Garnish

to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
to taste Crushed Red Pepper Optional, for heat.
1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley For garnish, can replace with basil or chives.
to taste Shredded Cheddar Cheese Optional, use freshly grated for better melting.

Equipment

Large pot

Method

Preparation

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add ground beef and brown for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Drain excess grease.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in elbow macaroni, cover pot, and cook on medium-low for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve hot garnished with parsley and cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 24gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Monitor pasta closely to avoid overcooking. Consider adding a splash of red wine during simmering for added flavor. Incorporating veggies can increase nutrition without compromising flavor. Store leftovers in airtight containers.

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