Easy Old-Fashioned Goulash

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20 lean; can substitute half sausage for richer flavor)
• 1 medium Onion (Diced; yellow or white works)
• 5 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1.5 teaspoons Chili Powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Paprika (Smoked or sweet)
• 3 cups Beef Broth (Low‑sodium preferred)
• 30 ounces Tomato Sauce (Pureed canned tomatoes)
• 30 ounces Diced Tomatoes (Undrained, include juices)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional)
• 2 cups Elbow Noodles (Uncooked; can increase to 3 cups for less broth)
• 1.5 cups Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or cheddar, shredded)

Instructions

1. Brown the meat and onions

   Heat the large pot over medium‑high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 7‑10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: medium‑high

2. Toast aromatics

   Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and paprika to the pot. Stir constantly and toast for 60‑90 seconds until fragrant.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium‑high

3. Add liquids and seasonings

   Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix well and bring to a simmer over high heat.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: high

4. Develop flavor (optional)

   If you have time, lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10‑15 minutes to deepen the flavor.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: medium

5. Cook the pasta

   Add the uncooked elbow noodles (2 cups) to the pot. Stir to submerge and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture looks too dry.

   Time: PT15M

   Temperature: medium

6. Melt the cheese

   Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium

7. Serve

   Dish the goulash into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy while hot.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

462

Protein

28g

Carbohydrates

21g

Fat

20g

Fiber

4g