Go Back

One-Pot Goulash Delight

A robust and comforting one-pot dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a medley of sautéed vegetables in a rich, tomato-infused broth. Yields approximately 7 cups.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth plus extra as needed
  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (1 Tbsp)
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped (1 1/2 cups)
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 2/3 cups 6.7 oz macaroni pasta
  • 1 medium carrot finely diced (1/2 cup)

Instructions
 

  • Warm a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Incorporate the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and carrot; sauté for approximately 6 minutes, shifting them to one side once softened. Introduce the ground beef in segments, allowing each portion to sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes before crumbling and mixing with the vegetables. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned. Eliminate excess fat if necessary using an absorbent method. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the contents to a simmer. Add the macaroni, stirring well. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer gently, stirring now and then, until the pasta is almost al dente, around 10–12 minutes. Supplement with additional broth if the mixture becomes too thick. Once cooking is complete, take the pot off the heat and let it stand a few minutes, allowing the pasta to fully tenderize and the sauce to thicken. Finally, stir in chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

To remove excess fat, dab the surface with paper towels held in tongs. Optional additions include 1 cup frozen corn added with the tomatoes, a pinch (1/4 tsp) of red pepper flakes for heat, or a garnish of grated parmesan or cheddar cheese when serving.