Description
A hearty and flavorful classic American goulash featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with Italian seasoning and Worcestershire sauce. This comforting one-pot meal is finished with melted pepper jack cheese for a creamy, spicy touch. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef stock or beef broth
- 1½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Make the base: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and increase heat to medium-high. Break the meat apart with a wooden spatula and cook until no longer pink, approximately 4-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot. Return the pot to heat and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the rest of the ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the elbow macaroni. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Cook: Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Add cheese: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese, allowing it to melt into the hot goulash for a creamy finish.
- Rest and serve: Let the goulash rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and allow flavors to meld. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra ½ cup of beef broth during simmering.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference; adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add extra heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
