Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

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There’s something so nostalgic about a pot of steaming goulash bubbling on the stove. It takes me right back to weeknight dinners at home, when everything felt warm and grounded. That perfect blend of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and tomatoey goodness creates a one-pot meal that’s not just simple to throw together—but seriously satisfying.

What I love most about this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash is how approachable it is. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, a hungry partner, or just looking for a cozy solo dinner, it fits the bill. It’s budget-friendly, feeds a crowd, and delivers all the rich flavor of something that’s been simmering for hours—even though it’s done in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

This dish is the definition of cozy comfort. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with familiar flavors that never disappoint. You only need one pot, which makes clean-up a breeze, and the ingredients are pantry staples—nothing fancy or hard to find. It’s ideal for meal prep, too, because the flavors deepen beautifully after a day in the fridge.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for American-style goulash. Its size and shape are perfect for soaking up all the tomato and beef goodness. However, if you’re out of elbow pasta, small shells or rotini work well too. The key is to use a pasta that holds its texture and grabs the sauce.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this goulash is how customizable it is. Don’t have ground beef? Use ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist. No canned tomatoes? A jar of marinara sauce can do the trick in a pinch. Want to add veggies? Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. You can also swap the pasta for a gluten-free version or whole wheat noodles to suit your dietary needs.

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Ingredients for this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

• Ground Beef – This is the heart of the dish, giving it richness, flavor, and protein. I recommend using 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of fat and taste.
• Elbow Macaroni – The traditional pasta choice, it holds the sauce well and cooks up quickly.
• Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic base that builds depth in the overall flavor.
• Garlic – Brings a savory punch that enhances the meat and tomato notes.
• Diced Tomatoes (with juice) – Creates the chunky, rustic tomato base that makes goulash so satisfying.
• Tomato Sauce – Adds smoothness and helps bind the sauce with the pasta.
• Beef Broth – Infuses the pasta and sauce with a deeper, savory umami flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – A secret weapon that delivers a slight tang and savory complexity.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds a herbaceous, comforting layer to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing everything to life.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – A fresh, bright contrast to the richness of the dish.

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Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the pot with the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Base

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, then add in the Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the beef broth and stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. This will give the dish its signature saucy texture and deepen the flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Pasta

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni straight into the pot. Stir well so the pasta is evenly distributed and fully submerged in the liquid. Simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked and everything has thickened nicely, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy right out of the pot or spooned into deep bowls for the ultimate comfort meal.

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How Long to Prepare the Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

This dish is surprisingly quick given how hearty and flavorful it is. Here’s how the time breaks down:

Prep Time: About 10–15 minutes
Chopping the onion, garlic, and prepping ingredients takes just a bit of effort. If you’re using pre-minced garlic or frozen chopped onions, it’ll go even faster.

Cooking Time: Around 25–30 minutes
Most of this is hands-off while the goulash simmers and the pasta cooks in the sauce. Everything comes together in one pot, saving both time and dishes.

Total time from start to finish: roughly 40–45 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
• Brown the beef thoroughly for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Let the garlic cook just until fragrant—don’t burn it.
• Stir the pasta often while it simmers to ensure even cooking and prevent it from sticking.
• If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is done, add a splash more beef broth.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Not draining the beef: Excess grease can make the dish oily.
• Overcooking the pasta: It should be tender but not mushy.
• Using low-sodium broth without adjusting seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt accordingly.
• Not letting the flavors meld: Simmering for a few minutes before adding the pasta deepens the overall flavor.
• Adding cheese too early (if using): Cheese should be stirred in right before serving to avoid clumping or burning.

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What to Serve With Comforting Ground Beef Goulash?

1. Garlic Bread

The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce in your bowl.

2. Green Salad

A fresh, crunchy side with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the goulash.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans add a simple and nutritious touch.

4. Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy—this side adds texture and flavor.

5. Pickles or Pickled Beets

A tangy contrast that cuts through the hearty dish and refreshes your palate.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer the goulash to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for 4–5 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight.

Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this goulash spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper while simmering.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small shells, rotini, or penne all work well. Just watch the cooking time as it may vary.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking labels on broth and sauces.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a large enough pot and adjust seasoning as you scale up.

Should I cook the pasta separately?

Nope! The pasta cooks right in the sauce, which infuses it with flavor and keeps things simple.

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Conclusion

Comforting Ground Beef Goulash is everything a one-pot meal should be: quick, affordable, cozy, and satisfying. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone around the table feel at home. With flexible ingredients, easy storage, and huge flavor payoff, this recipe is a keeper for weeknights and beyond. Whether it’s your first time making goulash or a nostalgic return, you’re in for a delicious experience.

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