Easy Goulash Recipe

By Muhammad Faizan

Description

This Easy American Goulash is a quick, comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and simple pantry spices. It’s hearty, family-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Servings

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional but adds flavor depth)

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef:
    In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

  2. Add Onion & Garlic:
    Stir in diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

  3. Add Liquids & Seasoning:
    Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

  4. Add Macaroni:
    Stir in the dry elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

  5. Simmer:
    Cover and let the goulash simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.

  6. Finish & Serve:
    Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • This is the American-style goulash, not the Hungarian paprika-stew version.

  • The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, creating a thick, rich, flavorful base.

  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to blend.

Tips

  • Use broth, not water — adds richer flavor.

  • Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

  • Want a creamier texture? Add ½ cup sour cream at the end.

  • Boost flavor with a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.

  • Make it leaner by using ground turkey or chicken.

  • To prevent soggy pasta, don’t overcook after the macaroni becomes tender.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 390

  • Protein: 26 g

  • Carbohydrates: 38 g

  • Fat: 15 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 720 mg

(Values vary based on ingredients and cheese optionality.)

Health Benefits

  • High in protein from the beef (or turkey, if substituted).

  • Balanced meal including carbs, protein, and moderate fat.

  • Tomatoes provide antioxidants, particularly lycopene.

  • One-pot cooking reduces added fats and keeps cleanup easy.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.

2. Can I freeze goulash?

Yes — freeze for up to 3 months. The pasta softens slightly but remains delicious.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Short pastas like shells, rotini, or mini penne work well.

4. How can I make this meal spicier?

Add cayenne, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes — use plant-based meat or add extra beans like kidney or black beans.

6. What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend melts beautifully.

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