Nothing beats a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. This ground beef goulash exudes the warmth of home-cooked goodness, and trust me, your loved ones will thank you for whipping this up. Simple yet flavorful, it’s the dish that checks all the boxes: comfort, speed, and true southern flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those pantry staples you always have on hand.
Why you’ll love this dish
First off, let’s talk about the flavor profile. The combination of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and a zesty tomato base creates an explosion of taste that’s both familiar and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
"This recipe has become a family favorite. It’s our go-to when we need something quick but satisfying!"
There’s a sense of nostalgia with goulash—a dish that brings families together, whether for a casual weeknight meal or a family gathering. It’s also versatile; you can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or the ingredients you have. Plus, it’s quick to prepare. You’ll be sitting down to enjoy a delicious dinner in no time.
How this recipe comes together
This dish is a one-pot wonder! Start by browning the ground beef, add in your aromatics, toss in some tomato sauce and seasonings, mix in the pasta, and let it all cook together until everything’s perfectly melded. It’s straightforward, fuss-free, and keeps cleanup to a minimum—win-win!
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 30 min
What you’ll need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping (optional)
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish, but don’t stress if they’re not on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors.
Toss in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s all well-blended.
Cover the pot and let it cook on low for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and everything’s cooked through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve topped with grated cheese if desired.
Don’t skip the stirring! It ensures even cooking and prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom—it matters more than people think.
Best ways to enjoy it
This goulash shines on its own, but pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for that complete meal feel. For a fun twist, you can also serve it in bowls topped with sliced green onions or crunchy tortilla chips for some texture. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream is never a bad idea.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. You can heat it back up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick. If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it should last about 2–3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. It makes a difference! Fresh garlic and herbs elevate this dish substantially.
- Season as you go. Taste-testing while cooking is key. A little extra salt or a dash of pepper at the right moment can transform flavors.
- Don’t forget to let it cool before storing. This keeps your leftovers from getting soggy and helps maintain texture.
Creative twists
If you want to switch things up, add some colorful veggies like bell peppers or zucchini into the mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can add a little kick. You can also swap out elbow macaroni for any pasta you have on hand—think shells or penne—the possibilities are endless!
FAQ
Can I use turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a lighter version, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Sure! Substitute the ground beef with lentils and use vegetable broth for a hearty, meat-free option.
How can I keep this dish from getting too dry?
Ensure you use enough liquid while cooking and keep an eye on the pot to prevent the pasta from soaking up all the moisture. A splash of broth or water can help rehydrate if needed!
Ground Beef Goulash
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty ground beef goulash that’s quick, comforting, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors.
- Toss in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s all well-blended.
- Cover the pot and let it cook on low for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and everything’s cooked through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve topped with grated cheese if desired.
Notes
Don’t skip the stirring! It ensures even cooking and prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: goulash, ground beef, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal