Description
This Easy American-Style Goulash is a comforting, one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered in savory seasonings. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in about 30 minutes, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Servings
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
3 cups beef broth (or water)
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional garnish: fresh parsley
Instructions
Brown the beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onion & garlic:
Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add liquids & seasoning:
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add pasta:
Add the dry elbow macaroni and stir to combine.
Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked.
Optional cheese:
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted for a creamier, richer goulash.
Serve:
Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes & Tips
Use lean ground beef (85–90%) to minimize greasiness.
Swap meat with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn mix well.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced green chiles.
Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue to absorb liquid after cooking.
Give it rest time: Let goulash sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Approximate values, without cheese)
Calories: 360
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 820 mg
Health Benefits
High in protein from ground beef, helping with muscle repair and satiety.
Tomato-based sauce provides antioxidants like lycopene.
One-pot cooking reduces added fats and preserves nutrients.
Whole-grain macaroni can be substituted for added fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I freeze goulash?
A: Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Goulash stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. The pasta may absorb liquid, so add a bit of water when reheating.
Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or small penne work well.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
Q: What can I serve with goulash?
A: Green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.