Ground Beef Goulash is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This classic American-style goulash is inspired by traditional European goulash but simplified for busy weeknights, making it a perfect family dinner. The combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and pasta in a lightly spiced tomato sauce creates a filling and satisfying meal that everyone loves.
What makes this dish special is how easily it comes together without compromising on flavor. The ground beef absorbs the richness of the tomato sauce and spices, while the pasta soaks up the sauce for a perfectly cohesive dish. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for colder months, yet easy enough to make any time of year.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s both simple and versatile. It’s a one-pot meal that doesn’t require complicated steps, yet it delivers bold, comforting flavors that feel like home cooking. The sauce is rich and tomato-forward, but not overwhelming, and the pasta adds heartiness, making it a balanced, family-friendly dinner.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it transforms basic pantry ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual family dinners. Ground Beef Goulash is also customizable, making it easy to adjust the flavors or ingredients to suit your family’s preferences while still providing a hearty, comforting dish everyone will enjoy.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
Ground beef
Olive oil
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Bell pepper, chopped
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Tomato sauce
Beef broth
Elbow macaroni or other pasta
Paprika
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
For Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking Directions
Brown ground beef with vegetables, add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings, then simmer. Add pasta and cook until tender and the sauce is well combined.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking briefly until fragrant.
Step 4: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 5: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Step 6: Season with paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Step 7: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 8: Add pasta to the sauce and cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 9: Adjust seasoning to taste and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the pasta is fully coated.
Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Ground Beef Goulash hot as a main dish. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Recipe Tips
Tip: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
Tip: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes before adding pasta for a richer flavor.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the pasta; it will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits.
Tip: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Variations
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
Vegetable Goulash: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition.
Spicy Goulash: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Creamy Goulash: Stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese for a creamy variation.
Turkey Goulash: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Freezing and Storage
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Freezing: This goulash can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.
Special Equipment Needed
Large skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Conclusion
Ground Beef Goulash is a comforting, hearty, and versatile dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With tender beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection, it’s a one-pot meal that satisfies both kids and adults. Easy to prepare, customizable, and always delicious, this goulash is a timeless comfort food that will become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ground Beef Goulash
Ground Beef Goulash is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
For Garnish:
Instructions
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Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
-
Step 2: Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
-
Step 3: Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking briefly until fragrant.
-
Step 4: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
-
Step 5: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
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Step 6: Season with paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
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Step 7: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Step 8: Add pasta to the sauce and cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Step 9: Adjust seasoning to taste and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the pasta is fully coated.
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Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
