Easy Goulash Recipe
This Easy Goulash Recipe is a comforting one-pot classic that combines hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. It’s a nostalgic favorite that the whole family will love!
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Finish and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Customize the Protein: Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Thicker Sauce: Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid if you prefer a thicker consistency.
What to Serve with Goulash
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the sauce.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, goulash reheats well! Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze goulash? Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well as substitutes.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Easy Goulash Recipe, a dish that’s quick, hearty, and always satisfying!
Easy Goulash Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings:
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Veggie Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
