American Goulash

This easy American goulash recipe comes together quickly with pantry staples you likely have on hand. Just simmer ground beef and elbow macaroni in a rich tomato sauce for a cozy one-pot dinner.

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce or tomato based pasta sauce
• 2 cups beef broth or water, more as needed
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 green bell pepper diced, optional
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 bay leaf 2 if they are small
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni uncooked
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese, optional