Wannabe Goulash
Cozy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, "Wannabe Goulash" is the ultimate one-pot comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners. This easy goulash-inspired dish combines tender ground beef, aromatic garlic and onions, and the rich flavors of paprika, oregano, and basil. Simmered in a savory blend of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, it’s finished with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni for a satisfying, family-friendly meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, this budget-friendly recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Customize your bowl with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for an elevated touch. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or planning a cozy night in, this Wannabe Goulash is your go-to recipe for comforting, home-cooked perfection.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large (diced) onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 14.5 ounces (1 can) canned diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces (1 small can) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 cup (optional, for garnish) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons (optional, chopped for garnish) fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper, coating the beef and onion mixture evenly with the spices.
Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pan. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and stir in the elbow macaroni.
Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and cooked through.
Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.
Serve hot and, if desired, garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2520 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 148.5 g | 190% | |
| Saturated Fat | 51.4 g | 257% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 364 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 7207 mg | 313% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 166.8 g | 61% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.3 g | 90% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.8 g | ||
| Protein | 129.7 g | 259% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 738 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 17.4 mg | 97% | |
| Potassium | 2084 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
