Grown-up Goulash
If you've ever had goulash as a kid you probably remember the ground beef, tomato sauce and elbow noodles that are the basics of this dish. It was one of my favorite recipes and one of the easiest one for my mom to prepare. This version is updated for more grown-up tastebuds but my son likes it too. It includes diced onions, carrots, zuchini and peppers. Simmered in a red wine and tomato sauce then topped with creamy melted cheese. Try this with a slice of Easy French Bread, a side salad and you've got yourself a meal!
Grown-up Goulash
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium zuchini, diced
1 small pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup red wine
8 oz elbow noodles (approx 1 1/2 cups)
1 (26 oz) can of your favorite tomato sauce (I used a plain sauce and added 1/2 tsp oregano, basil and garlic powder)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups of Mozzarella, divided
1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Fry beef in a large hot pan (large enough to hold all the ingredients). When most the beef is browned, drain off the grease and add all the vegetables. Continue to cook, stirring often, for about 3-5 minutes. Add the water and red wine and bring to a boil. Add the noodles, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Remove the lid, check to make sure most of the liquid was absorbed, then add the tomato sauce, salt and pepper and 1 cup of the mozzarella. Stir to combine. Top mixture with the rest of the cheese, cover and continue to cook on low for 15 more minutes.