Easy Cheesy Goulash

This is the time of year when I crave comfort food.  It's cold and snowy outside, so I want something hearty and delicious to warm the cockles of my heart.  It just so happens that I love goulash, which fits all of those criteria.  Goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish that is amazing!  Don't be put off by those memories of that gross glop they served in the school cafeteria.  The real deal is delicious!  However, as with most traditional dishes, it is quite a labor intensive thing to make.  Enter my short cut goulash that takes considerably less labor and time.

Cheesy Goulash

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 large mushrooms, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 can tomato sauce
• 8 oz. beer
• 2 Tbsp. paprika
• 2 boxes macaroni & cheese (I prefer Annie's brand)
• Salt & Pepper to taste 

1. Prepare mac & cheese as directed. 
2. Meanwhile, saute pepper, onion, mushrooms, and garlic until onions just start to become translucent.  Shift veggies to one half of the pan.
3. Add ground beef to the other half of the pan.  Break up meat until just browned.  Stir together with veggies.  
4. Mix in paprika.  Continue to saute for an additional 1-2 min.
5. De glaze the pan with the beer, scraping up any browned bits.  Add in the tomatoes and tomato sauce.
6. Mix in the mac & cheese and salt & pepper to taste.

 

Ahhh!  My tummy is full, my cockles are warm, and I'm completely content.  Exactly what I want out of comfort food.  I would suggest serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.  Enjoy!