A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This American goulash, also known as Johnny Marzetti, combines ground beef, macaroni, tomatoes, and a blend of spices for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 C Uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 28 oz Diced tomatoes, undrained
- ⅔ C Frozen corn
- 8 oz Tomato sauce
- 4 oz Can diced green chilis
- ½ tsp Cumin
- ¼ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper
- ¼ C Chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation:
Step 1: Boil the macaroni until it is done to your liking. Rinse in cold water and drain.
Step 2: Add the ground beef and onion to a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove, and cook until the meat is browned and onions have softened. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and add in the diced tomatoes, frozen corn, tomato sauce, green chilis, salt, pepper, and cumin. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the macaroni and cilantro, and stir to combine before serving.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This goulash recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make with readily available ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni creates a hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. You can add different vegetables, spices, or even cheese to make it your own. The leftovers taste great too.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- Add a side salad for a complete meal.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality ground beef.
- If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro, but fresh is preferred.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, celery, or carrots.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your liking.
- For a thicker goulash, simmer for a longer time or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (estimated, per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion:
This goulash recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for a family meal. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Goulash freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Q3: What if I don’t have diced green chilis?
A: If you don’t have diced green chilis, you can omit them or substitute them with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a similar kick.
Q4: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add cheese to the goulash. Shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella are all great options. You can stir it in at the end or sprinkle it on top before serving.
Q5: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients except for the macaroni and cilantro. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cooked macaroni and cilantro during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
