Description
A classic and comforting American Goulash recipe featuring lean ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce. This hearty skillet meal is quick to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp basil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- dash red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids and Sauces
- 2¾ cup tomato juice
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Toppings
- grated parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it is no longer pink. Once cooked, drain the excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness.
- Add macaroni and garlic: To the same skillet with beef, add the uncooked elbow macaroni and minced garlic cloves. Cook together, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni starts to turn a slightly yellow color, indicating it has begun to toast slightly.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Pour in the tomato juice, then add dried minced onion flakes, salt, black pepper, basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Simmer the goulash: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the elbow macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Serve with parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top before serving to add a savory, cheesy finish to the dish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Using tomato juice instead of canned tomatoes gives a lighter texture and flavor to the dish.
- You can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer, use fresh garlic instead of dried onion flakes for a fresher flavor.
- Do not overcook the macaroni to avoid mushiness; check tenderness close to the 20-minute mark.
