One-Pot Goulash

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 sweet onion, diced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups marinara sauce, less-sweet marinara
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (14 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth or beef bone broth
• 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• Dash of black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion has softened. Drain any excess grease if needed.

2. 2

   Add the tomato paste and stir it into the beef mixture. Cook for about 1 minute.

3. 3

   Pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth.

5. 4

   Add the Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.

6. 5

   Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom.

7. 6

   Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

9. 7

   Serve warm and enjoy! For an extra cheesy finish, top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.