Are you looking for a quick and tasty dinner? My Easy One Pot Goulash recipe is perfect for busy nights. It’s simple, flavorful, and packed with all your favorite ingredients. Using just one pot, you can make a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this recipe and get cooking! Your weeknight dinners may never be the same!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
The main ingredients create a rich base for your goulash. Ground beef or turkey gives the dish its heartiness. The onion and garlic add depth and flavor. Bell pepper brings a sweet crunch.
Spices and Seasoning
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Spices transform your dish into something special. Paprika adds warmth and a hint of sweetness. Oregano and basil introduce an earthy element. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Optional Add-ins
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional add-ins can elevate your meal. Cheese makes it creamy and rich, while parsley adds a fresh touch. You can mix and match flavors to your liking.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meat
First, you need to brown the ground beef or turkey. Use a large pot or Dutch oven for this. Heat it over medium heat. Add the meat and break it apart with a spoon. Cook it for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary. This step gives your goulash a rich flavor.
Adding Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add the vegetables. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the onion to look translucent. Then, add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. This softens the pepper and adds sweetness to your dish.
Combining Ingredients
Now, let’s mix in the other ingredients. Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes, including their juices. Then add the elbow macaroni, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine. This mixture creates a hearty base for your goulash.
Cooking the Pasta
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. After that, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to cook al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm. This adds the right texture to your goulash.
Finishing Touches
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if you want it extra creamy. Mix until the cheese melts and blends well. Taste your goulash and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is where you make it just right for your taste buds. Enjoy this easy one pot goulash! You can find the Full Recipe for more detailed steps.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture
To ensure your pasta doesn’t overcook, keep an eye on the time. Elbow macaroni cooks quickly. I recommend stirring it every few minutes as it simmers. This helps it cook evenly. Check for doneness after about 15 minutes. The pasta should be firm but tender.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of your goulash with extra spices. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne for heat. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth. You might also try a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also brighten the dish. Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Serving Suggestions
Goulash pairs well with simple sides. A fresh green salad works perfectly to balance the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a fun twist, offer some garlic bread on the side. Top your goulash with fresh parsley for a pop of color and taste. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch up the protein in this goulash. Ground chicken is a great choice. It gives a lighter flavor. You can also try plant-based options. Crumbled tofu or lentils work well. They add protein without meat. These swaps keep the dish tasty and satisfying.
Veggie Additions
Adding more veggies makes this dish even better. Zucchini is a fun choice. It cooks quickly and adds great texture. Corn also brings sweetness and color. You can toss in spinach for some greens. Don’t be shy about using what you have. Extra veggies make it colorful and healthy.
Healthier Options
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, reduce the sodium. Use low-sodium beef broth instead. Whole grain pasta is another smart swap. It adds fiber and nutrients. You can also skip the cheese if you’d like. These small changes keep the dish delicious and healthy. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers in the fridge, let the goulash cool. Use an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just take it out and reheat.
Freezing Tips
Freezing goulash is easy. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat goulash, use a pot on low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the texture nice. If it seems dry, add a splash of broth or water. Enjoy your goulash just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the goulash and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it great for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you do not have elbow macaroni, try other pasta types. Penne, fusilli, or shells work well. Choose any pasta you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, swap the ground beef or turkey for plant-based meat. You can also use lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This keeps all the rich flavors while being meat-free.
What is the total cooking time?
The total cooking time is around 30 minutes. You need 10 minutes to prep the ingredients. Then, cook everything for about 20 minutes. This quick time makes it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add more vegetables to boost nutrition. Try diced zucchini, corn, or carrots. Spinach is a great addition too. Just add them when you mix in the broth and tomatoes. This way, they cook well and blend with the flavors.
In this article, we explored how to make goulash, focusing on key ingredients and steps. We discussed main ingredients like ground beef, onions, and elbow macaroni. Plus, we shared tips for perfect texture and flavor.
In conclusion, you can easily customize goulash to fit your taste. Try different proteins and add veggies for a healthier dish. With proper storage, you can enjoy leftovers too. Now, you have a simple guide to make this comforting meal anytime.
