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. 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. Add the tomato paste and stir it into the beef mixture. Cook for about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth.
4. Add the Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
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.
6. Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve warm and enjoy! For an extra cheesy finish, top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.