American Goulash

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (115g) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz/425g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
• 1 tsp (5g) paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese, optional
• 2 tbsp (30g) tomato paste, optional

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks
2. Once the beef is browned, drain the excess fat and add the diced onion and minced garlic - cook until the onion is translucent
3. Add the elbow macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet - stir to combine
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender
5. If using tomato paste, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed
7. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it on top of the goulash and let it melt
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired