Easy Comfort Food: How To Create A Delicious Hamburger Goulash With Elbow Macaroni In Minutes

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of a classic comfort food with our comprehensive guide on how to make hamburger goulash with elbow macaroni. This delectable dish tantalizes taste buds with its rich, savory broth, tender hamburger, and al dente macaroni. Join us on this culinary journey as we unravel the secrets of creating this beloved family favorite.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, assemble the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can tomato soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Prepare the Goulash Base

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato soup, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and season with oregano, basil, black pepper, and salt.

Cook the Macaroni

1. Cook the Macaroni: In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Combine the Goulash

1. Add the Macaroni: Once the goulash base has simmered for about 15 minutes, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir to combine.
2. Simmer: Continue simmering the goulash for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the macaroni is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Serve the hamburger goulash immediately, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
2. Accompaniments: Pair the goulash with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations on the Classic

• Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the goulash base for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable-Packed Goulash: Add additional chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, to the skillet for a veggie-rich twist.
• Creamy Goulash: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the goulash base for a richer, creamier texture.

Tips for Success

• Use a lean ground beef to avoid excess fat in the goulash.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it will become mushy.
• Taste the goulash and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Let the goulash simmer for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop fully.

The Perfect Comforting Meal

Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy weekend, a bowl of hamburger goulash with elbow macaroni is the epitome of comfort food. Its savory flavors, tender ingredients, and ease of preparation make it a family favorite that will warm your soul and fill your belly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of pasta in the goulash?
A: Yes, you can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, shells, or rotini.

Q: How can I thicken the goulash sauce?
A: Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to 1/4 cup of cold water and stir into the simmering goulash. Cook until thickened.

Q: Can I freeze hamburger goulash?
A: Yes, you can freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.