1-First Step: Prepare Your Equipment and Vegetables Start by gathering a large pot or Dutch oven. This recipe makes a generous amount, so using a pot with at least 6-quart capacity ensures everything cooks evenly without spilling over. Dice your onion and green bell pepper into small, even pieces so they cook quickly and distribute their flavors throughout the dish. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

2-Second Step: Brown the Beef and Vegetables Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 cup of diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until the beef is no longer pink. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. The vegetables will soften and release their flavors into the beef, creating a delicious foundation. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the pot. This step keeps the dish from becoming greasy while preserving all the flavorful seasonings. Return the pot to the stove and continue to the next step.

3-Third Step: Add Aromatics Add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so watch it carefully and stir constantly. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma filling your kitchen. This brief cooking time releases the garlic’s natural oils and intensifies its flavor.

4-Fourth Step: Build the Sauce Now it’s time to create the rich sauce that makes this beef goulash recipe special. Stir in:* 2 cans (15 oz each) of tomato sauce* 2 cans (15 oz each) of petite diced tomatoes* 3 cups of beef broth* 3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce* 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt* 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning* 3 bay leaves Mix everything well to combine all the flavors. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth and tanginess, while the Italian seasoning brings those classic herb flavors that complement the tomato base perfectly. If you’re looking for another family favorite, check out this cheeseburger casserole recipe that also combines ground beef with pasta in a delicious way.

5-Fifth Step: Add Pasta and Simmer Add 2 cups of uncooked macaroni noodles (or your preferred small pasta) directly to the pot. Stir well to ensure all the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a low boil. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The noodles will cook directly in the sauce, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. This technique makes the pasta more flavorful than if you cooked it separately. You’ll know the goulash is ready when the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

6-Sixth Step: Finish and Serve Remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard them. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. The cheese will melt into the hot goulash, creating a creamy, cheesy finish that brings everything together. Serve hot in bowls, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.