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## **Instructions**
### 1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat **a tablespoon of olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **diced onion** and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
– Add the **garlic** and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
– Add the **ground beef** and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
### 2. **Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:**
– Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **tomato sauce**, and **tomato paste**. Add the **beef broth** or water to loosen the sauce, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
– Season with **oregano**, **basil**, **salt**, **black pepper**, and **sugar** (if using). Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
### 3. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Add the **elbow macaroni** (or your choice of pasta) to the sauce, stirring to combine. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
### 4. **Serve:**
– Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle **shredded cheddar cheese** over the top and let it melt into the dish for extra cheesy goodness.
– Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** for a pop of color and flavor.
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## **Serving Suggestions:**
– **Side Salad:** Serve American Goulash with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
– **Garlic Bread:** Pair it with some crispy **garlic bread** to soak up all the delicious sauce.
– **Roasted Vegetables:** A side of **roasted broccoli** or **zucchini** would complement the dish and add extra veggies to your meal.
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## **Why American Goulash is a Perfect Family Meal:**
1. **Affordable:** Made with common ingredients that are often found in most kitchens, American Goulash is budget-friendly without compromising on flavor.
2. **Quick and Easy:** This dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal fast.
3. **Kid-Friendly:** The pasta and cheesy, tomato-based sauce make it a big hit with kids, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you want to add them to the mix.
4. **Leftover Friendly:** American Goulash stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and makes excellent leftovers, meaning you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner again the next day.
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## **Tips for the Best American Goulash:**
– **Make it Spicy:** If you like a little heat, add **crushed red pepper flakes** or **jalapeños** to the sauce for a spicy kick.
– **Add Veggies:** Feel free to incorporate vegetables like **bell peppers**, **mushrooms**, or **spinach** into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
– **Meat Alternatives:** Substitute the ground beef for **ground turkey** or **ground chicken** for a lighter version of the dish.
– **Make It Cheesy:** For extra creaminess, mix in some **cream cheese** or **mozzarella cheese** during the last few minutes of cooking.
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## **Conclusion:**
**American Goulash** is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something cozy. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences, making it a great dish to adapt over time.
Try this recipe next time you want a satisfying, no-fuss meal the whole family will enjoy. You’ll find yourself coming back to this classic time and time again. 🍽️🍝
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