Ground Beef Goulash

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Ground Beef Goulash, a hearty dish that combines tender ground beef with rich flavors and simple ingredients.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:03:38.103Z

This Ground Beef Goulash is a family favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its blend of spices and tender beef, it's perfect for a cozy night in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and savory flavors that delight the palate
  • One-pot meal for easy preparation and cleanup
  • Comfort food that's perfect for any season

The Comfort of Goulash

Ground Beef Goulash is a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together around the dinner table, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef, macaroni, and a medley of vegetables creates a hearty dish that is both filling and comforting. Each spoonful takes you back to simpler times, reminding you of home-cooked meals and cozy evenings with loved ones.

This goulash recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich, savory flavors meld beautifully as they simmer together, creating a depth of taste that is truly delightful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, Ground Beef Goulash is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Easy Preparation for Busy Lives

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. Ground Beef Goulash comes to the rescue with its one-pot preparation method. This means you can create a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with a mountain of dirty dishes afterward. Simply brown the meat, sauté the veggies, and let everything simmer together—it's that easy!

Additionally, the simplicity of the ingredients means you likely have everything you need in your pantry. This makes it an ideal recipe for those last-minute dinner decisions or when you're looking to make the most of what you already have at home. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to cooking, as they can help with measuring and stirring!

Customizing Your Goulash

One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Goulash is its versatility. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to put your own spin on it. You can add your favorite vegetables—such as zucchini, carrots, or even spinach—to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile. Just chop them up and toss them in with the rest of the ingredients during cooking.

If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. For a creamier texture, a dollop of sour cream on top before serving can add an extra layer of richness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours each time you whip it up!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Goulash.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ground Beef Goulash is perfect for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just portion out the goulash into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

When reheating, you might want to add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain the desired consistency, as the pasta can absorb some of the sauce during storage. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors as when it was first cooked!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Goulash, consider serving it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls on the side. This not only complements the hearty flavors of the goulash but also helps to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh garden salad can also provide a refreshing contrast, adding a crisp texture to your meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of indulgence, a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top right before serving can add a delightful creaminess. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses can be a great choice, melting beautifully over the warm goulash.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze goulash?

Absolutely! You can freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with goulash?

Goulash is great on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread or a side salad.

Ground Beef Goulash

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Ground Beef Goulash, a hearty dish that combines tender ground beef with rich flavors and simple ingredients.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bell pepper, chopped
  5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  6. 2 cups beef broth
  7. 2 cups elbow macaroni
  8. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  9. 1 tablespoon paprika
  10. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  11. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Step 02

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 04

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 25g