Comfort food at its finest—this hearty and flavorful goulash brings together tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, savory seasonings, and elbow macaroni all in one pot. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pot Meal: Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
- Rich Flavor: A savory blend of paprika, tomato, soy sauce, and herbs creates deep, satisfying taste.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike—warm, filling, and comforting.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Break up the meat as it cooks.
Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute , just until fragrant—don’t let it burn.
Step 3: Stir in Liquids and Seasonings
Add the tomato sauce , diced tomatoes (with juice) , beef broth , soy sauce , paprika , and Italian seasoning . Stir well to combine everything.
Step 4: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni , making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Season and Add Cheese (Optional)
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If using cheese, stir in the shredded cheddar off the heat until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm, straight from the pot or ladled into bowls. Enjoy as-is or with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead & Reheat: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze Friendly: Freeze individual portions for easy meal prep. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Customize: Add carrots, green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Swap in turkey or plant-based beef for a different twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cheese):
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~14g
- Fiber: ~3g
This Best Goulash Recipe is the ultimate in cozy, no-fuss comfort food. With its bold flavors, tender pasta, and hearty beef base, it’s a family favorite that comes together quickly and always hits the spot.
Whether you’re cooking for a hungry household or looking for a reliable dinner idea, this goulash delivers every time. Make a big batch and enjoy!
