Tasty Goulash
Goulash is the kind of comforting, hearty meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and brings everyone to the table without needing a second invitation. Rich, savory, and deeply satisfying, this classic dish combines tender beef, tomatoes, pasta, and aromatic seasonings into one flavorful pot. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet hearty enough to serve for family gatherings or cold-weather meals.
While traditional Hungarian goulash is more of a beef and paprika stew, the American-style goulash has become a beloved comfort food in many homes. It blends ground beef, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni into a thick, flavorful skillet meal that feels both nostalgic and practical. It is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
One of the best things about goulash is its versatility. You can adjust the seasonings, add vegetables, or make it slightly spicy depending on your taste. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste and cook for about one minute. This step deepens the flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Stir well to combine. Add the paprika, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir thoroughly so the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The sauce should be thick and hearty but not dry. If needed, add a splash of extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
If you like a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the pot for a few minutes until the cheese melts smoothly into the goulash. Stir gently before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Goulash
Use good quality ground beef for the best flavor. An 80/20 blend provides richness without being overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner version, ground turkey can be substituted, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.
Let the dish simmer gently rather than boiling rapidly. Slow cooking helps the pasta absorb flavor evenly and prevents it from becoming mushy.
For added depth, consider including a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. These small additions can enhance the savory profile without overpowering the dish.
Vegetable additions such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added along with the onions for extra nutrition and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Goulash stores very well in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to four days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
For longer storage, goulash can be frozen for up to three months. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Goulash is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich tomato sauce. Garlic bread or buttered dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
For a cozy family dinner, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed green beans. If you are hosting guests, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs for a more elevated presentation.
Why This Recipe Works
This tasty goulash recipe succeeds because it balances flavor, texture, and simplicity. Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb the savory tomato and beef flavors, creating a cohesive dish rather than separate components. The combination of herbs and paprika gives warmth and depth without requiring complicated techniques.
It is a true one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup. The ingredients are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens, making it accessible for busy households.
Whether you are cooking for your family on a weeknight or preparing a comforting meal to share with friends, this tasty goulash delivers every time. It is hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and comforting without being fussy.
A bowl of warm goulash has a way of slowing down the day and bringing people together. Simple ingredients, cooked with care, can create something truly satisfying. This is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your regular rotation, requested again and again because it feels like home in every bite.