Simple Ground Beef Goulash

Save this recipe on:

I grew up eating this hearty bowl of Simple Ground Beef Goulash, and it’s still one of my favorite comfort meals today. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel at home with every bite—the tender macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and rich tomato sauce all come together like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether I’m looking for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight or a nostalgic meal to wind down with, this goulash never disappoints.

What I love most about this recipe is how unfussy it is. You don’t need complicated ingredients or a full afternoon to pull it off—just a few pantry staples and less than an hour, and you’ve got a satisfying, family-approved meal. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly dish that makes a generous batch, so there’s always plenty to go around or save for later.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Ground Beef Goulash

This dish checks all the boxes for a go-to weeknight dinner. It’s quick, affordable, and incredibly cozy. The beef gives it protein-packed heartiness, while the elbow macaroni soaks up all the savory tomato flavor. It’s the kind of one-pot meal that fills your kitchen with the best smells and leaves everyone at the table full and happy. Plus, leftovers taste just as amazing the next day!

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for goulash, and for good reason. It cooks up quickly and holds sauce like a champ, creating that irresistible bite in every spoonful. If you don’t have macaroni, you can use small shells, rotini, or even penne in a pinch—just keep an eye on the cooking time so it doesn’t get too soft.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is super flexible, which is part of its charm. Don’t have ground beef? Swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Want to sneak in more veggies? Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also switch the cheese topping or skip it altogether if you’re keeping it dairy-free. The base is simple enough to adapt however you like.

---

Ingredients for this Simple Ground Beef Goulash

• Ground Beef: The foundation of this dish, providing richness and protein. I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
• Elbow Macaroni: The pasta of choice for goulash. Its shape holds the sauce beautifully and delivers that nostalgic texture.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness once sautéed.
• Garlic: Brings out a savory backbone that rounds out the flavor of the meat and sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes (canned): Adds texture and freshness to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Acts as the primary base of the goulash’s rich, savory flavor.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and helps cook the pasta directly in the pot.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Gives a touch of umami and depth to the overall flavor.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that rounds out the sauce with earthy notes.
• Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
• Bay Leaf: Infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic flavor during simmering.
• Cheddar Cheese (optional): Stirred in at the end or sprinkled on top for a comforting cheesy finish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.

---

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add chopped onion to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Mix everything well so the beef is evenly coated with the sauce and spices.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and meld together.

Step 5: Stir in the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir to ensure it’s fully submerged. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the flavorful broth.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Remove the bay leaf. If using cheese, stir in shredded cheddar until melted, or sprinkle some on top. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

---

How Long to Prepare the Simple Ground Beef Goulash

Prep Time: The prep work for this dish is minimal—around 10 minutes. You’ll need to chop the onions and garlic, open a few cans, and gather your spices. Everything else comes together quickly in the pot.

Cook Time: From browning the meat to simmering the pasta, the cooking process takes about 30–35 minutes. Since it’s a one-pot meal, you save time on cleanup, and you don’t have to juggle multiple burners or baking times.

---

Tips for Perfect Simple Ground Beef Goulash

• Brown the beef well to develop a richer, deeper flavor. Don’t rush this step.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—taste it toward the end to ensure it’s just al dente.
• Stir occasionally as the macaroni cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
• Add the cheese at the end for a creamy, melty finish if using.
• Let the goulash sit for a few minutes after cooking so the flavors can settle in.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much liquid: The macaroni will absorb a lot, but too much broth can leave the dish soupy.
• Not draining excess fat: This can make your goulash greasy and heavy.
• Undercooking the onions: If they don’t soften properly, they’ll add an unwelcome crunch.
• Overcooking the pasta: It’ll turn mushy if left too long. Stick to the timing.
• Skipping seasoning: Taste as you go. Salt and herbs are key for bringing the flavors alive.

---

What to Serve With Simple Ground Beef Goulash?

1. Garlic Bread

Perfect for sopping up the extra sauce and adding a crunchy contrast.

2. Green Salad

A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the goulash.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Light and buttery green beans add a simple veggie side that pairs perfectly.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed with olive oil and herbs make a flavorful side.

5. Coleslaw

For a creamy and tangy twist, coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: This goulash freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

---

Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day in advance and reheat it. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier.

What kind of ground meat works best?

Ground beef is classic, but ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster and can become mushy.

Is this goulash spicy?

Not by default. If you like a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients (except the pasta) in the slow cooker. Add cooked pasta toward the end.

---

Conclusion

Simple Ground Beef Goulash is everything a comfort dish should be—easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect go-to recipe when you want something that feeds a crowd, warms you up, and doesn’t require a trip to a specialty store. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or as next-day leftovers, this goulash delivers on every level. Add it to your regular meal rotation, and you won’t regret it.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: