Goulash is a simple skillet dinner with tomatoes, beef, and macaroni noodles in a zesty tomato sauce. It's a perfect comfort food on a budget!
Ingredients :
1 pound lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
2 cups marinara sauce or tomato based pasta sauce, approx. ½ of a 26 ounce jar
2 cups beef broth or water, more as needed
14 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices, 1 can
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 green bell pepper diced, optional
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf 2 if they are small
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni uncooked, about 8 ounces
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese, optional
Directions :
In a large skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
Add the marinara sauce, broth, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, bell pepper (if using), Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the elbow macaroni, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
Remove & discard the bay leaf. Top with cheese if using, and replace the lid. Let rest for about 5 minutes or until the pasta has thickened and the cheese is melted.
