There is something incredibly nostalgic and heartwarming about a steaming bowl of this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe. With tender elbow macaroni swimming in a rich, savory tomato and beef broth, every bite wraps you in a cozy hug of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply crave a satisfying, wholesome meal, this dish effortlessly brings together humble ingredients into a dish bursting with personality and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so special—without any fuss or complicated steps.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this goulash fulfilling and rich.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): Classic pasta shape that holds the sauce perfectly and provides comforting chewiness.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant and bold aroma.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings a hint of acidity and texture to balance the richness.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tomatoey backdrop that ties everything together.
- 3 cups beef broth: The liquid gold that enhances the beef flavor and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami punch and subtle tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings warmth and a smoky note to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that uplifts every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and subtle herbal brightness.
How to Make Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot on medium heat and adding your ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon to ensure even browning. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your goulash. Once browned, drain any excess grease—this keeps the dish from becoming too heavy but leaves all the rich taste intact.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add your diced onion and minced garlic directly to the pot with the beef. Sauté them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and everything smells wonderfully fragrant. This slow sweat releases natural sweetness and adds complexity to your comforting goulash base.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Now it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, the tomato sauce, and beef broth. These liquids combine to create a luscious, savory sauce that will cook down beautifully. Don’t forget to add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper at this stage to infuse every spoonful with layered flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Pour in the elbow macaroni and stir everything together until well mixed. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low to medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that the pasta becomes tender while soaking up the rich broth and tomato blend perfectly.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving
Give the goulash a taste once the pasta is cooked through. Adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning as needed to suit your preference. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, adding a vibrant touch that brightens the whole dish before serving it piping hot.
How to Serve Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
While optional, fresh parsley not only adds a dash of color but also a mild herbal freshness that balances the rich and savory flavors. For an extra indulgent twist, dollops of sour cream or shredded sharp cheddar cheese make delightful toppings that melt into the warm goulash.
Side Dishes
This dish is so hearty it can stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette creates a pleasing contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the meal, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to fancy it up for guests or family, serve your Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe in individual bowls sprinkled with parmesan and parsley. Add a side of roasted veggies for a balanced plate that’s both comforting and elegant. It also makes fantastic leftovers layered into a casserole or stuffed into bell peppers for a tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option that stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
This goulash freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste or texture, giving you a quick, ready-to-reheat meal anytime you’re craving comfort food.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives this goulash its classic richness, using ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the flavor and fat content will be milder, so you may want to adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?
Yes! Elbow macaroni is traditional because of how well it holds the sauce, but small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne can be great substitutes depending on what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free if that is a concern for you. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, focusing on savory and herbal flavors rather than heat. If you enjoy spice, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prepping! The goulash holds up well after storing and reheating, making it an ideal make-ahead dish that you can enjoy for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing quite like sinking your spoon into a bowl of this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe when you need a little warmth and satisfaction. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug from the inside out, effortlessly bringing family and friends to the table. Try making it soon—you’ll quickly discover why it’s such a beloved classic in so many homes.
Print
Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Ground Beef Goulash is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onions, and aromatic spices. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base & Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is softened and fragrant, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to develop rich flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the simmering pot. Stir well to combine. Cover and cook over low to medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.
- Final touches and serve: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Drain the cooked ground beef well to avoid excess grease in the final dish.
- Stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the paprika.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
