Ground Beef Goulash

### Instructions for Making Ground Beef Goulash

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and hearty ground beef goulash:

#### 1. **Cook the Ground Beef**
– In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

#### 2. **Sauté the Vegetables**
– Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

#### 3. **Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings**
– Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

#### 4. **Cook the Pasta**
– In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni (or your chosen pasta) according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

#### 5. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**
– Once the sauce is ready, stir in the cooked pasta and mix well until the pasta is coated with the flavorful sauce. Let the dish simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

#### 6. **Serve and Garnish**
– Serve the ground beef goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese, if desired. Enjoy with a side of bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

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### Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Goulash

– **Use Lean Ground Beef**: If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef. Just be sure to season the meat well for maximum flavor.
– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or peas to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
– **Leftovers**: Ground Beef Goulash makes great leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

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### Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Goulash Recipe

Ground Beef Goulash is the perfect mix of simplicity and comfort. It’s a dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. The tender ground beef, savory spices, and comforting pasta come together to create a filling meal that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it easy to adjust to your tastes or dietary needs.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply craving a warm and hearty meal, Ground Beef Goulash is a winner. It’s a dish that never goes out of style and is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner repertoire. Enjoy this classic, comforting recipe today!