Easy Goulash
The ultimate comfort food, Easy Goulash combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is both satisfying and delicious. Make it tonight and enjoy a heartwarming meal!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef 80 percent lean/20 percent fat
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 cups water or beef broth
- 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
- 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 3 leaves bay leaves
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or penne or shell pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional topping
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Sauté until it’s cooked through, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. As the meat cooks, be sure to break it up with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to achieve a fragrant aroma but be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Stir it in well with the beef for a delicious flavor.
- Pour in 3 cups of water or beef broth, depending on your preference. This will help create a sumptuous sauce that binds everything together. Follow this with the tomato sauce and the diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the soy sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and bay leaves. This is where the magic happens; these ingredients will add depth and complexity to your sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Occasionally check and give it a stir to prevent sticking.
- After the sauce has simmered, add the elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir it in well. This pasta will absorb all the delicious sauce, making it extra tasty. Cover again and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
- Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and carefully remove the bay leaves from the dish. If you have opted for the shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet again. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt nicely.
- Serve your Easy Goulash hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Notes
- Freezer meal: Brown the ground beef, drain, and cool. Add the ground beef and other ingredients to a freezer Ziploc and freeze for 3 to 4 months. Save the noodles and cheese to add later. Thaw and heat on the stove adding the noodles during the last 30 minutes. Top with cheese.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container(s) and put it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Slow Cooker Directions: Sauté ground beef in a skillet until cooked. Drain excess fat, add garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Transfer beef to the slow cooker along with all remaining ingredients except the cheese. Cook on high for about 3 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours. Add cheese 20 to 30 minutes before serving.