Southern Macaroni & Tomatoes (Goulash)

During the winter months when I was a child, we often had a dish that my Mama called Macaroni and Tomatoes. It always contained ground beef so I'm not sure why we only called it "Macaroni & Tomatoes”. As an adult I learned that in some parts of the country folks call this Goulash, Chop Suey, or Homemade Hamburger Helper. Whatever you call it, this is the perfect recipe to feed your hungry family on a cold night. 

Prep Time: 10 minutes 
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients: 

• 1lb ground beef (I use 85/15)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (I use Lawrys)

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 1 1/2 cups beef broth

• 15oz can tomato sauce

• 15oz can petite diced tomatoes

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 cup uncooked elbow noodles

You will also need:

• Large skillet

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic, then break beef up evenly.

3. Season with Worcestershire sauce, a dash of seasoning salt, and pepper, then brown.

4. Add remaining teaspoon of seasoning salt, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning then turn heat up to bring to a slow boil.

5. Turn heat down to medium/medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add uncooked elbow noodles then continue to simmer, stirring often, until noodles are tender (usually around 13 minutes), turning the heat down slightly near the end to continue a low simmer. 

7. Serve warm with toppings such as green onions, sour cream or shredded cheese.