Ground Beef Goulash

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners, this Ground Beef Goulash is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Adele Summers

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-24T14:09:40.816Z

This Ground Beef Goulash recipe is a family favorite that's sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With its rich, savory flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and filling, perfect for any appetite
  • Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation
  • A classic comfort food that brings warmth to your table

A Comforting Classic

Ground Beef Goulash is the epitome of comfort food, embodying the warmth and satisfaction that comes from a home-cooked meal. This dish is not only hearty, but it also provides a sense of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you're coming home from a long day or gathering the family for a cozy dinner, this goulash is sure to deliver the comfort and joy that everyone craves.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is both delicious and filling. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce creates a delightful medley of flavors that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the easy preparation means you'll have more time to spend with your loved ones around the dinner table.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the standout features of Ground Beef Goulash is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can customize to fit your taste preferences. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or spices to create a unique twist on this classic dish.

Moreover, leftovers make for an excellent lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors tend to deepen and meld together, making each subsequent serving even more enjoyable. You can also freeze portions for an easy meal solution on busy nights, ensuring that you always have a hearty, homemade meal at the ready.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Ground Beef Goulash is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s a meal that fits seamlessly into various occasions. Whether it's a casual family gathering, a potluck with friends, or a comforting meal for a chilly evening, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. The aroma of simmering goulash wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime.

Additionally, this recipe is budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing flavor. With its satisfying ingredients and quick cooking time, Ground Beef Goulash is a dish you'll find yourself returning to time and again.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and elbow macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Serve

Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Goulash!

Cooking Tips for Best Results

To achieve the best flavor in your Ground Beef Goulash, consider browning the beef thoroughly to develop a rich, savory base. Don't rush this step; taking the time to properly brown the meat will enhance the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, as the right amount of salt and pepper can elevate the dish significantly.

When adding the elbow macaroni, make sure to stir it well into the mixture. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker goulash, you can reduce the amount of beef broth or let it simmer a little longer to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch, serve your Ground Beef Goulash with a side of crusty bread or a simple garden salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, while a salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish. You can also offer additional toppings, such as sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, to give guests options and make the meal feel even more special.

If you want to take your goulash to the next level, consider pairing it with a nice red wine. A medium-bodied red, like a Merlot or a Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the flavors beautifully and enhances the dining experience. Enjoy this goulash with your favorite sides and drinks for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Yes, this goulash freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with goulash?

This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread.

Ground Beef Goulash

A hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners, this Ground Beef Goulash is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Adele Summers

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Goulash

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 medium onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  5. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  6. 2 cups elbow macaroni
  7. 2 cups beef broth
  8. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  9. 1 tablespoon paprika
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Step 03

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and elbow macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 05

Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired, and serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 30g