Goulash is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef, macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce with savory seasonings. It’s a one-pot wonder, making it an easy and delicious dinner option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender beef, soft pasta, and rich sauce creates a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or reheating leftovers, this goulash is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Perfect Goulash
I love making goulash because it’s not only easy to throw together, but it’s also a complete meal all on its own. The beef, pasta, and tomatoes simmer together to create a rich, savory sauce that gets better with every bite. Plus, this recipe is highly customizable—you can add in vegetables, use different spices, or even swap out the type of pasta. It’s also perfect for meal prep since the flavors get even better the next day!
Pair this dish with a side of Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes Recipe or a light salad like Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese Recipe for a balanced meal.
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Goulash Recipe
- One-Pot Meal: This is a quick and easy meal that requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pot.
- Rich and Savory: The tomato-based sauce is seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs, creating a flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy.
- Great for Leftovers: Goulash reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or a next-day lunch.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or switch up the type of meat for a personal touch.
Main Ingredients for Perfect Goulash
- Ground Beef – Lean ground beef is the base of this dish, giving it rich flavor and protein.
- Elbow Macaroni – Classic elbow macaroni soaks up the delicious sauce, creating the perfect texture.
- Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes – These form the base of the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Garlic and Onions – These aromatics add depth and savory flavor to the dish.
- Beef Broth – Adds richness to the sauce and keeps the goulash from drying out.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity to the sauce.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Goulash Recipe
Here’s how to make this hearty and flavorful goulash step by step:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Tip: For a leaner version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Pro Tip: You can add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (undrained), and 2 cups of beef broth. Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Variation: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Cook the Macaroni: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and let the goulash cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Tip: If the goulash becomes too thick, you can add a little more beef broth to loosen it up.
- Finish with Cheese (Optional): For a cheesy twist, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan during the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
- Serving Idea: Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Once the goulash is cooked and the pasta is tender, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serving Idea: Pair it with a side of Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes Recipe or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Veggies: You can add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- How to Store: Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
- How to Freeze: Goulash freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Health Benefits of Perfect Goulash
This goulash provides a well-balanced meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one pot. The lean ground beef offers protein, which is essential for muscle repair and maintenance. The tomatoes provide a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the pasta offers energy-boosting carbohydrates. You can make this dish even healthier by adding more vegetables or using whole wheat pasta.
- High in Protein: Ground beef provides protein, which helps with muscle repair and energy.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can add extra veggies or use leaner meat to make this dish lighter and more nutritious.
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