This dish is absolutely one of my most favorite comfort meals from childhood! Growing up there was always some sort of goulash at big get togethers and church potlucks and I always loved it! This recipe is far better than anything I remember though:) Goulash is traditionally a Hungarian dish but I’ve put a tasty Italian spin on it here. Make sure to use San Marzano tomatoes when possible because they add that unmistakable Italian flavor.

The Recipe

THE INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsps Olive Oil
3/4 lb Ground beef
3/4 lb Sweet (or spicy if you desire!) Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 Small onion
1 Red bell pepper
2-4 Cloves garlic (depending on the size of your cloves)
2 tsp salt
2 - 15 oz Cans tomato sauce
1 - 28 oz Can San Marzano tomatoes (I used Cento brand)
3 Cups beef broth
1 1/2 tsps Dried basil
1/2 tsp Dried thyme
1/2 tsp Dried oregano
1 Large sprig fresh rosemary
2 Bay leaves
1 lb Short pasta or macaroni pasta
Freshly grated parmesan or pecorino cheese for topping

THE PREPARATION

In a large pot over medium-high heat add in the olive oil. When warmed, add in the onion, bell pepper, ground beef, sausage and 1/2 tsp salt, cook until the meat is just browned. At this point you can drain off any excess fat that you do not want. I often skip this part. Add in garlic and stir for a couple of minutes.
To the meat and vegetables mixture, add in the tomato sauce, tomatoes (If using whole tomatoes you can crush them up before or after they are in the pot), beef broth, dried herbs, bay leaves, rosemary, remaining 1 1/2 tsps salt, and the dried pasta.

3.Stir to combine all the ingredients well and then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a light boil and cook, stirring regularly, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes (this time can change depending on the type of pasta used).

4.Remove the bay leaves and stir in the cheese. Top with additional parmesan cheese and Enjoy! And remember, this recipe definitely goes with wine :)