This hearty Beef or Turkey Goulash recipe brings a comforting and savory blend of meat, pasta, and melted cheese together in one pot, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Featuring a robust tomato base and a medley of spices, this dish promises not only ease of preparation but also delivers on flavor. It’s a family-friendly meal that combines the simplicity of pantry staples with the wholesomeness of home-cooked fare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Versatile and Hearty: Whether you choose beef or turkey, the recipe remains a satisfying and filling dish.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as the entire dish is cooked in a single pan.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of Italian and adobo seasonings creates a deep and aromatic flavor profile that enhances the meat and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 ½ cups water
- ½ cup beef broth
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned and half-cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Once partially cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and heat over medium. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the meat to the skillet. Add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Season the Goulash: Incorporate Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Macaroni: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and continue to simmer for 30 more minutes, or until the pasta is cooked, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese: Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and integrated.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and allow it to melt slightly before serving.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips:
- Meat Selection: For a leaner option, turkey is excellent, but beef provides a richer flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors and textures.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the level of adobo seasoning and black pepper to suit your taste for heat and spice.
This Goulash is not just a meal but an experience of comfort and warmth, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Enjoy the deep flavors and hearty textures that make this dish uniquely satisfying.
