Ground Beef Goulash

Ground beef goulash fills the air with a savory aroma, inviting you to experience its comforting warmth. This hearty one-pot meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

This recipe is great for families, beginners, or anyone craving a nostalgic taste of home. It’s ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep, as it stores well for later enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It features a delightful combination of tender pasta and rich meat.
• The goulash is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• One pot means easy cleanup, which is always a bonus.
• Option to add melted cheese for an extra creamy texture.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a scrumptious meal.

For the Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

For the Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth

For Flavor

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Substitution: Ground turkey can replace beef.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option.
• Swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
• Diced tomatoes can be replaced with crushed tomatoes.
• Cheddar can be replaced with mozzarella for a different flavor.

How to Make It

Start cooking this comforting goulash in just six easy steps.

Brown the meat

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté the aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.

Stir in the sauces

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the pasta

Bring to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni.

Simmer the dish

Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is cooked.

Add cheese (optional)

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, this dish freezes well.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• For extra flavor, cook the onions until lightly caramelized.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
• Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
• Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving for better flavor incorporation.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings when you need a crowd-pleaser.