Name: Comforting Goulash That'll Make You Forget Fast Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (a rich protein that provides a hearty foundation for your goulash); 1 cup elbow macaroni (perfect for soaking up the savory sauce); 15 oz tomato sauce (brings moisture and deep tomato flavor); 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (adds freshness and texture); 1 medium onion (contributes sweetness and depth); 2 cloves garlic (elevates the dish's flavor profile); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a savory note); 1 teaspoon dried basil (lends an herbal touch); 1 teaspoon paprika (imparts mild smokiness); 1 teaspoon salt (essential for enhancing flavors); 1 teaspoon pepper (adds a hint of heat); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of Goulash wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? This one-pot wonder is my go-to solution for those busy weeknights when I crave comfort without spending hours at the stove. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick 25-minute cook time, this recipe transforms ground beef and macaroni into a rich, savory dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Not only is it an effortless crowd-pleaser, but it's also perfect for leftovers, meaning you can relish its delectable flavors for days. Curious about how to whip up this cozy classic that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dig in!

Why is Goulash the ultimate comfort food?

Comfort in Every Bite: Goulash is the definition of cozy, bringing together savory ground beef and tender macaroni in a delightful sauce.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, you can deliver a satisfying dinner without the lengthy prep.
Weeknight Hero: Perfect for busy evenings, this one-pot dish makes cleanup a breeze—winner!
Endless Variations: Feel free to personalize your Goulash with additional veggies or spices for a unique twist, just like in our quick and delicious pasta recipes.
Family Favorite: A dish that guarantees second servings, making it great for anyone who loves homemade meals.
Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that celebrates simplicity and flavor!

Goulash Ingredients

For the Base

Ground beef – a rich protein that provides a hearty foundation for your goulash.
Elbow macaroni – perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, giving you that comforting bite.
Tomato sauce – brings moisture and a deep tomato flavor, crucial for the dish.
Diced tomatoes – adds a fresh burst of flavor and texture to your goulash.
Medium onion – contributes sweetness and depth when sautéed, enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic – a fragrant addition that elevates the dish's flavor profile beautifully.

For the Flavoring

Worcestershire sauce – adds a complex, savory note that brings out the flavors of the meat.
Dried basil – lends an herbal touch that brightens up the richness of goulash.
Paprika – imparts a mild smokiness that's perfect for balancing all the flavors.
Salt – essential for enhancing all the other flavors in your goulash.
Pepper – adds a hint of heat, making the dish more flavorful.

For the Creamy Finish

Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – melts beautifully, creating a creamy texture and extra flavor in each bite.

This goulash recipe truly showcases how easy it is to create a scrumptious meal that will chase away fast food cravings in no time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Goulash

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook for about 4 minutes, until slightly underdone. This will ensure the pasta holds its shape when combined later. Drain the macaroni and set it aside while preparing the rest of the goulash.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 chopped medium onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This step infuses the goulash with savory flavors, creating a delightful base for your dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Worcestershire Sauce
Next, stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and savory. This quick step enhances the depth of flavor in your goulash, tantalizing your senses as the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Base and Seasonings
Pour in 15 oz of tomato sauce and 14.5 oz of diced tomatoes, along with 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly, then reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich and comforting sauce.

Step 5: Combine with Macaroni and Simmer
Stir in the reserved macaroni, ensuring it's well coated with the tomato sauce. Continue to simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the macaroni to absorb the savory flavors of the goulash. The dish should be heated through and appear thick and hearty, making it a true comfort food delight.

Step 6: Add Cheese for a Creamy Finish (Optional)
For an extra touch of comfort, sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Stir the cheese into the goulash until it melts and creates a creamy consistency throughout the dish. This optional step elevates your goulash to new creamy heights, adding that irresistible richness that everyone will love.

What to Serve with Goulash

There's nothing quite like pairing a comforting bowl of savory goodness with delicious sides that complement its rich flavors.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness adds a delightful texture, perfect for soaking up every last drop of goulash sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie brings a fresh crunch, balancing the hearty richness of goulash while adding nutrition to your meal.
Garden Salad: A crisp mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed with vinaigrette refreshes the palate, rounding out the dish beautifully.
Coleslaw: This tangy side provides a crunchy contrast and a bit of zing, elevating your goulash experience to new heights!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and rich, the velvety potatoes complement the seasoned meat and pasta, making every bite a comforting delight.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn is a classic summertime favorite that pairs well with goulash's savory notes, creating a balanced plate.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat with a hint of cinnamon is the perfect finish after a hearty meal, leaving you satisfied and happy.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like iced tea or a tangy lemonade enhance the meal's flavors, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These Goulash make-ahead tips are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat sauce (steps 2-4) up to 3 days in advance; just let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The macaroni can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy your comforting Goulash, simply combine the chilled sauce and macaroni in a pot over medium heat, stirring until heated through. Add the shredded cheddar cheese shortly before serving, mixing until melted. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal on the table with minimal effort!

Helpful Tricks for Goulash

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to slightly undercook the macaroni to prevent it from becoming mushy once added to the simmering sauce.

Layer Flavors: Sauté the onions until they're translucent to deepen the flavor before adding the garlic and beef. This creates a more robust base.

Simmer Slowly: Allow the goulash to simmer after adding the tomatoes and seasonings. This lets the flavors mingle and develop beautifully.

Cheese Addition: If using cheddar cheese, add it just before serving to keep it creamy and avoid clumping in the hot dish.

Leftover Magic: Goulash tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld—perfect for meal prep or enjoying later!

How to Store and Freeze Goulash

Room Temperature: Enjoy your goulash warm and fresh right after cooking; however, if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to maintain flavor and quality.

Freezer: Freeze goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy thawing and meal prep.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it appears dry.

Goulash Variations to Explore

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on the classic Goulash recipe!

Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for a mixture of lentils or sautéed mushrooms, adding a hearty texture without the meat. This brings earthy flavors that will satisfy even the most devoted carnivores.
Spicy: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick. Spicing things up can elevate the dish and unleash a wave of vibrant flavors.
Creamy Dream: Replace tomato sauce with a rich Alfredo sauce for a creamy version of goulash. This dreamy twist is comfort food heaven, perfect for those who crave a little indulgence.
Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano just before serving for a burst of freshness. This simple addition can brighten the flavors and make your goulash feel like a garden dish.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, use spiralized zucchini instead of macaroni. This not only lightens the dish but also adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Cheesy Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavorful twist. Mixing cheeses creates an ooey-gooey experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It offers a nutty taste and is a great option for vegan diets.
Add Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach while sautéing the onions. This adds nutritional value and a pop of color to your Goulash, making it even more appealing.

Feel free to mix and match these variations with cooking techniques or additional ingredients. Each change can bring a wonderful new taste to this beloved dish! If you're curious about more comforting recipes, don't forget to check out our simple homemade pasta dishes or explore vegetarian variation ideas as well!

Goulash Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for goulash?
Absolutely! The best goulash starts with quality ingredients. For ground beef, select lean options to reduce excess grease. When picking your diced tomatoes, look for cans with no added sugar or preservatives. If possible, use fresh herbs like basil instead of dried for an enhanced flavor.

How should I store leftover goulash?
Very! To store goulash, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, make sure to reheat it thoroughly—microwaving or warming on the stove works great while maintaining that delicious taste!

Can I freeze goulash?
Absolutely! Goulash freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. Label each container with the date, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed for moisture.

What if my goulash turns out too dry?
Don’t worry, it happens! If you find your goulash a bit on the dry side, simply add some broth or water a little at a time while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will rejuvenate the dish and keep all those flavors intact. You can also mix in a splash of tomato sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Are there any dietary considerations for goulash?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider swapping ground beef for turkey for a leaner option. For a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free pasta. Always check your canned tomatoes for allergens to ensure a safe meal for everyone. With these adjustments, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.