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Poor Man Goulash

A comforting and hearty dish made with ground beef, onions, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni, perfect for busy days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 2 cans tomato sauce (15 ounces each)
  • 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups water (as needed to cook pasta and loosen sauce)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and break it up. Cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned and no pink remains, about 7–10 minutes. If there is excess fat, spoon it off, leaving a couple of tablespoons.
  2. Stir in the diced onion and cook for another 3–5 minutes until the onions soften.
  3. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Add salt and black pepper if using.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Cooking
  1. About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in 1 1/2 cups water and then add the dry elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged. Add more water if needed.
  2. Cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the macaroni is tender but not mushy.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving hot.

Notes

This goulash pairs nicely with a side salad or warm bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.