Ghoulash (or Goulash) is a timeless comfort food that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This stew-like dish, originating from Hungary, has found its way into kitchens around the world, each region adding its own twist to the recipe. In this post, I’ll share with you a delicious variation of Ghoulash made with ground beef and elbow macaroni, perfect for cozy dinners and satisfying hungry appetites.
Ghoulash with Ground Beef and Elbow Macaroni Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds (if using), and cook for a few minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in the diced bell pepper and continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the pepper is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the Ghoulash is too thick, you can add a splash of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serve the Ghoulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Success:
Be sure to choose elbow macaroni or any other small pasta shape that will cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the Ghoulash.
To save time, you can prepare the Ghoulash in advance and reheat it before serving. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
For a cheesy twist, you can stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese just before serving for added richness and creaminess.
With its tender beef, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni, this Ghoulash with ground beef and elbow macaroni is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting dinner at home, this classic dish is bound to satisfy both hunger and cravings. Enjoy!