Ingredients
Gathering these ingredients is like prepping for a storybook meal, each item bringing its own tale to the pot:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, but adds a lovely creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
If you fancy a bit of a twist, you can substitute ground turkey for beef or add a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
Cooking this goulash is almost as rewarding as enjoying it. Follow these steps for a dish that brings the warmth of my Devon kitchen to yours:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, letting the spices toast for a minute to release their aroma.
- Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Pour in the macaroni, stirring to combine. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through, approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If using, stir in the sour cream for a creamy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Remember, the key is to cook with love and a touch of nostalgia, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
