When it comes to comfort food, goulash reigns supreme as a warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying meal. This easy American-style goulash is packed with tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all simmered together to create a dish that's not only delicious but also budget-friendly. It’s perfect for busy families, stretches across multiple meals, and makes the house smell irresistible while cooking.
This recipe comes together quickly in under 45 minutes and requires minimal cleanup—ideal for weeknight dinners. The bonus? It tastes even better the next day, making it a lifesaver between paydays.
Let’s dive into this classic recipe that’s sure to win over your family’s hearts and taste buds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this goulash recipe plays a specific role, ensuring the dish has the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: A hearty protein base that adds a rich, savory flavor. Use lean beef to minimize excess grease.
- 2 large yellow onions, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish as they cook down.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Provides a bold, aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 cups water & 1 cup beef broth: Creates a robust and savory cooking liquid for the pasta.
- Two 15-oz cans tomato sauce: The backbone of the sauce—thick, tangy, and full of flavor.
- Two 15-oz cans diced tomatoes: Adds texture and slight acidity to balance the richness of the meat.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for classic Italian flavor.
- 1 tbsp oregano: Enhances the dish with warm, earthy notes.
- 3 bay leaves: Infuses the sauce with subtle herbal undertones.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that adds depth, umami, and a hint of tanginess.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky aroma without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and spice.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The classic pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly on top, creating a creamy, cheesy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Goulash
Follow these simple steps to create a warm and hearty meal that the whole family will love:
Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until fully browned. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Drain excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming overly oily.
Cook the Onions and Add Aromatics
- Add the chopped onions to the beef and cook for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
Build the Flavorful Sauce
- Pour in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (including the juices).
- Add the Italian seasoning, oregano, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer to Perfection
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Cook the Pasta
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and let it cook for about 4–5 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb liquid even after you remove it from the heat.
Finish and Serve
- Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves.
- Serve the goulash warm and top each portion with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. The heat will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, comforting finish.
Why This Goulash Recipe Is Loved
- Budget-Friendly: With simple pantry staples, this meal is perfect for stretching dollars without sacrificing flavor.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Rich beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender pasta create the ultimate comfort food.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Goulash tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal planning.
Pro Tips for Perfect Goulash
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni near the end of the cooking process to ensure it stays perfectly tender and doesn’t turn mushy.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper at the end if needed, depending on the flavor of your broth and tomatoes.
- Make It Cheesier: Stir in an extra cup of shredded cheddar cheese before serving for an ultra-creamy finish.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots when cooking the onions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this comforting goulash with simple side dishes to complete the meal:
- Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the goulash.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli, green beans, or peas for added nutrients and color.
Conclusion: The Ultimate One-Pot Goulash Recipe
This classic goulash recipe is the epitome of comfort food—affordable, filling, and bursting with flavor. It’s a one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, each bite is a delicious combination of tender pasta, hearty beef, and rich tomato goodness.
Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe or a meal that stretches for days, this goulash delivers. Make it tonight, and watch it become a family favorite in no time!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Try this irresistible goulash recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness that brings comfort to every bite!