We’ve discovered the perfect comfort food that’ll transform your weeknight dinner routine – classic ground beef goulash. This hearty Hungarian-inspired dish combines tender ground beef with pasta in a rich tomato-based sauce that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make.
What makes our goulash recipe special is how it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. We’re talking about a one-pot wonder that’s ready in just 30 minutes using simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – it’s perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone craving a warm and filling meal.
Our version takes the traditional goulash concept and makes it completely approachable for home cooks. You’ll love how the ground beef absorbs all those savory flavors while the pasta cooks right in the same pot, creating fewer dishes to clean.
Ingredients
Our goulash recipe requires simple pantry staples that combine to create maximum flavor. We’ve organized the ingredients by cooking order to streamline your preparation process.
Ground Beef and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean to fat ratio)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Pasta and Liquid Components
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
Creating our delicious ground beef goulash requires just a few essential kitchen tools that most home cooks already have on hand. We’ve streamlined this recipe to minimize both prep work and cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
Large Pot or Dutch Oven – A 6-quart capacity vessel serves as our primary cooking tool for this one-pot meal. We recommend using a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven for even heat distribution, though a large stockpot works equally well. The generous size accommodates all ingredients comfortably while allowing proper stirring throughout the cooking process.
Deep Skillet Alternative – If you don’t have a large pot, we can substitute with a deep skillet that holds at least 4 quarts. This option works particularly well for smaller batches or when cooking for fewer people.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – We need a sturdy stirring tool to break up the ground beef and combine ingredients without scratching our cookware. A wooden spoon handles the task perfectly while being gentle on non-stick surfaces.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board – Fresh vegetables require proper preparation tools for dicing onions, mincing garlic, and chopping bell peppers. We recommend using a chef’s knife for efficiency and safety during vegetable prep.
Cheese Grater – While pre-shredded cheese saves time, we achieve better melting results when grating cheddar cheese from a block. A box grater or microplane works well for this task.
Measuring Tools – Standard measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results every time we make this recipe.
These basic kitchen essentials allow us to create restaurant-quality goulash without specialized equipment or complicated techniques.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our delicious ground beef goulash. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure perfect results every time.
Prep the Ingredients
Start by dicing 1 large red onion and chopping 1 bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Mince 3-5 garlic cloves depending on your preference for garlic intensity. Measure out 1½ pounds of ground beef and set aside. Open your canned ingredients including 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth, 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste, and 1 can diced tomatoes. Gather all seasonings including paprika, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Brown the Ground Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon butter in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned completely, breaking it into small pieces with your wooden spoon as it cooks. We want even browning for maximum flavor development. Drain excess fat from the pot to keep our goulash from becoming greasy. This step typically takes 6-8 minutes for proper browning.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onions and bell peppers directly to the browned beef. Cook these vegetables until they become softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. This process takes about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy at this stage.
Add Seasonings and Liquids
Stir the tomato paste into the beef and vegetable mixture, coating everything evenly. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, mixing thoroughly. Add 1-2 tablespoons paprika for that authentic goulash flavor, along with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste. Mix all ingredients well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The liquid should just start bubbling around the edges.
Simmer the Goulash
Reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the goulash simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together and creates the rich, hearty sauce that makes goulash so satisfying. The mixture should be bubbling gently but not vigorously boiling.
Add the Pasta
Stir 2 cups of dry elbow macaroni directly into the simmering goulash. The pasta will cook in the flavorful liquid and absorb all those delicious tastes. Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite when finished.
Final Seasoning and Serving
Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or paprika as needed. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness if desired, or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot, paired with crusty bread for the complete comfort food experience.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Goulash
Mastering the art of ground beef goulash requires attention to key techniques that transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish. We recommend browning the ground beef thoroughly along with onions and peppers before adding any liquids to build a robust foundation of flavor. This crucial step creates the Maillard reaction that develops deep, savory notes throughout the entire dish.
Draining excess fat after browning prevents your goulash from becoming greasy and ensures the sauce maintains its proper consistency. We suggest tilting the pot slightly and using a spoon to remove accumulated fat, or carefully pouring the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer before returning it to the pot.
Using a combination of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes delivers both robust tomato flavor and appealing texture contrast. The sauce provides smooth consistency while the diced tomatoes add satisfying chunks that complement the ground beef perfectly.
Simmering the goulash gently allows the pasta to absorb all the rich flavors while preventing overcooking. We maintain a gentle bubble rather than a rolling boil to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce reduces to the ideal thickness over the 15-20 minute cooking time.
Adding Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory depth of your goulash with its complex umami profile. This ingredient bridges the gap between simple and sophisticated, elevating the overall taste without overwhelming the other flavors.
Removing bay leaves before serving remains essential since they are not edible and can pose a choking hazard. We recommend fishing them out with a spoon or tongs once the cooking process is complete.
Stirring occasionally prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking throughout. We suggest stirring every 5 minutes during the simmering phase to maintain consistent texture and prevent burning.
Adding cheese at the very end preserves its creamy texture and prevents curdling from excessive heat. We stir in the shredded cheddar just before serving to achieve that perfect melted consistency that makes each bite irresistible.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 388 |
| Protein | High |
| Carbohydrates | Moderate |
| Fat | Balanced |
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage ensures our ground beef goulash maintains its rich flavors and satisfying texture for future meals. We always allow the goulash to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers to prevent condensation buildup.
Refrigerator Storage
Store our cooled goulash in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Glass containers work exceptionally well as they don’t absorb flavors and heat evenly during reheating. We recommend dividing large batches into meal-sized portions for convenient serving later.
Freezer Storage
For longer preservation we freeze goulash portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label each container with the date to track freshness. Leave about an inch of space at the top of containers to allow for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Methods
Stovetop Method: We prefer reheating goulash on the stove over medium heat while stirring occasionally until heated through. This method preserves the texture best and allows us to monitor the consistency.
Microwave Method: Place goulash in a microwave-safe container and cover to prevent splattering. Heat in 1-2 minute increments while stirring between intervals until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Reheating Tips
Thaw frozen goulash overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even temperature distribution. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the mixture appears too thick during reheating. The pasta may absorb additional liquid during storage so adjusting consistency helps restore the original texture. We always taste and adjust seasonings after reheating since flavors can mellow during storage.
Variations and Substitutions
We love how versatile ground beef goulash can be, making it perfect for adapting to different dietary needs and taste preferences. Our base recipe serves as an excellent foundation that welcomes countless modifications without compromising the dish’s comforting essence.
Protein Alternatives
We can easily substitute the ground beef with other proteins to suit various dietary requirements. Plant-based crumbles work wonderfully for vegetarian versions, providing similar texture while absorbing all the rich flavors. Lentils offer another excellent vegetarian option that adds extra fiber and protein. Ground turkey or chicken create lighter versions while maintaining the hearty satisfaction we crave.
Pasta Options
Our elbow macaroni works perfectly, but we encourage experimenting with different pasta shapes. Shells capture the sauce beautifully in their curves, while penne provides satisfying bite-sized pieces. We recommend using gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comfort food classic.
Vegetable Additions
We can boost the nutritional value by incorporating additional vegetables into our goulash. Mushrooms add earthy depth and meaty texture that complements the ground beef perfectly. Diced carrots bring natural sweetness and vibrant color, while zucchini provides extra nutrition without overwhelming the dish’s flavor profile.
Cheese Variations
While cheddar cheese delivers classic American comfort food appeal, we enjoy experimenting with different cheese varieties. Mozzarella creates stretchy, melty goodness that kids especially love. Monterey Jack offers mild flavor with excellent melting properties. Dairy-free alternatives work seamlessly for those avoiding lactose, maintaining the creamy texture we desire.
Seasoning Modifications
We can transform our goulash’s flavor profile through creative seasoning adjustments. Smoked paprika adds wonderful depth and subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Cayenne pepper brings heat for spice lovers, while regular paprika maintains traditional Hungarian influences. These seasonings allow us to customize the heat level and complexity according to our preferences.
Broth Substitutions
When beef broth is unavailable, we successfully use chicken or vegetable broth as alternatives. Each option brings slightly different flavor notes while maintaining the necessary liquid for cooking the pasta properly. Vegetable broth works particularly well in vegetarian versions, keeping the dish completely plant-based.
Tomato Product Adjustments
We can modify the tomato base to achieve different textures and intensities. Crushed tomatoes create chunkier consistency, while tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce naturally. These adjustments help us control both the sauce thickness and the overall tomato presence in our finished goulash.
Conclusion
This ground beef goulash recipe delivers everything we love about comfort food – it’s hearty filling and incredibly easy to make. With just 30 minutes and one pot you’ll have a satisfying meal that feeds the whole family without very costly.
We’ve shown you how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can easily adapt it to your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick weeknight dinner this goulash has you covered. It’s the kind of recipe that’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation because it simply works every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ground beef goulash?
Ground beef goulash is a hearty, one-pot comfort food inspired by Hungarian cuisine. It combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and seasonings in a rich tomato-based sauce. Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash, this American version cooks the pasta directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all the flavors while creating a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
How long does it take to make ground beef goulash?
Ground beef goulash can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The cooking process includes browning the beef (5-7 minutes), sautéing vegetables (3-5 minutes), simmering the sauce (10 minutes), and cooking the pasta in the mixture (10-12 minutes). This quick preparation time makes it ideal for families needing a fast, filling meal.
What ingredients do I need for ground beef goulash?
Key ingredients include 1 pound ground beef, diced onions, garlic, red bell pepper, tomato paste, paprika, elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Most ingredients are common pantry staples, making this recipe accessible and budget-friendly. Fresh parsley for garnish and basic seasonings like salt and pepper complete the ingredient list.
Can I make substitutions in the goulash recipe?
Yes, ground beef goulash is highly versatile. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version, or try different pasta shapes including gluten-free options. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for more nutrition. Different cheese varieties and seasoning modifications can also customize the flavor to your preferences.
What kitchen equipment do I need?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools that most home cooks already have: a large pot or Dutch oven (or deep skillet for smaller batches), wooden spoon or spatula, sharp knife and cutting board, cheese grater, and standard measuring cups and spoons. No specialized equipment is required, making this recipe accessible for any kitchen setup.
How should I store leftover goulash?
Allow goulash to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, leave space for expansion and label containers with dates. For reheating, use stovetop or microwave methods, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency. Adjust seasoning after reheating as needed.
What are the nutritional benefits of ground beef goulash?
Each serving contains approximately 388 calories with high protein content from the ground beef, moderate carbohydrates from the pasta, and balanced fat content. The dish provides essential nutrients from vegetables and can be made more nutritious by adding extra vegetables or using leaner ground meat. It’s a well-balanced meal providing energy and satisfaction.
Can I meal prep ground beef goulash?
Absolutely! Ground beef goulash is excellent for meal prep due to its one-pot nature and storage-friendly ingredients. The flavors actually improve after sitting, making it perfect for preparing ahead. Portion into containers for easy weekday meals, and the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger batch cooking. It reheats well while maintaining its texture and flavor.
