Daycare Goulash

Simple, comforting, and nostalgic, Daycare Goulash is the ultimate one-pot meal that brings back childhood memories with every bite. This hearty dish features tender elbow macaroni simmered to perfection in a rich and savory tomato-based broth, infused with garlic, onions, and a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and paprika for a burst of flavor. Ground beef adds a protein-packed, satisfying element, while optional cheddar cheese creates a creamy twist. Ready in just 40 minutes and perfect for feeding a crowd, this versatile recipe is ideal for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. Serve it straight from the pot and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch! Perfect keywords: "Daycare Goulash," "one-pot meals," "easy comfort food recipes," "quick weeknight dinners," "hearty pasta dishes."

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 14-ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (optional) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.

Step 4

Add the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed.

Step 7

Serve the goulash warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2577.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2594.4

Total Fat 130.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 58.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 422.1mg	0%
Sodium 6594.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 214.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 29.3g	0%
Total Sugars 40.5g
Protein 150.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1249.5mg	0%
Iron 22.3mg	0%
Potassium 3199.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.5%

Protein: 22.9%

Carbs: 32.6%