Easy Goulash Recipe

That truly comforting feeling is what I chase in my kitchen. A meal that’s both simple and deeply satisfying is pure gold. This Easy Goulash Recipe wraps you in warmth. Think tender ground beef swimming in a rich tomato base. Perfectly cooked macaroni soaks up all that flavor. A blanket of melted cheddar cheese is the crowning glory. This dish embodies comfort and flavor. It brings a cozy feeling right to your dinner table.

This recipe has become a steady favorite in my home. Busy weeknights demand quick meals. Yet, I still crave something homemade and delicious. This ground beef goulash fits the bill wonderfully. It’s a dish that reliably pleases everyone, even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the leftovers taste amazing the next day for a great lunch. This flavorful pasta goulash is truly a lifesaver.

Why I Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this Easy Goulash Recipe is a winner in my book!

• Speedy Weeknight Wonder: Seriously, it’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavorful & Filling: Such a satisfying mix of savory beef, bright tomatoes, and tender pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s universally loved. Great for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of them in your pantry already! Easy shopping trip, anyone?

Easy Goulash Recipe Ingredients

The magic of this Easy Goulash Recipe is truly in how simple yet impactful its ingredients are. This combination creates a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. It really shows how quality ingredients can make a memorable meal.

• Olive Oil: We start by sautéing in olive oil. It provides a flavor foundation.
• Onion & Green Bell Pepper: These aromatics build depth. They add sweetness as they soften.
• Ground Beef: This is the hearty protein. It makes this goulash so filling.
• Garlic: Garlic is essential for zing. It adds a pungent, savory kick.
• Tomato Sauce & Petite Diced Tomatoes: These form the juicy, acidic backbone. They add richness and great color.
• Beef Broth: This adds needed liquid for simmering. It infuses a robust beefy flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret umami weapon. It adds a welcome touch of tang.
• Seasoned Salt & Italian Seasoning: These convenience spices add savory notes. They bring herbaceous goodness too.
• Bay Leaves: These impart subtle aroma. They add complexity during simmering.
• Macaroni Noodles: The pasta is key. It soaks up all the delicious sauce. It makes a complete meal.
• Cheddar Cheese: This makes for a creamy topping. It brings everything together beautifully.

Substitutions and Tips:

Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. No macaroni? Any small pasta works. Rotini or shells are great substitutes. You can also swap cheddar. Try Monterey Jack or Colby blend for a cheesy twist. A dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley adds wonderful flavor. Remember, exact amounts are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Easy Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef

First, heat the olive oil in a big pot. Use medium-high heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook these until they start to soften. This takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon while it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is no longer pink. Browning the beef well is key. This adds great flavor to your easy beef goulash.

Step 2: Drain Fat and Add Garlic

Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain out excess fat. This keeps your final dish from being too greasy. Put the pot back on the stove. Use medium heat now. Add the minced garlic. Stir it into the meat and veggies. Cook for just 30 seconds. You want the garlic to smell fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic tastes bitter.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients and Pasta

Now, let’s build the sauce for your pasta goulash. Pour in the tomato sauce. Add the petite diced tomatoes too. Pour in the beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce. Add seasoned salt and Italian seasoning. Drop in the bay leaves. Finally, add the uncooked macaroni noodles directly into the pot. Make sure they are mostly covered by liquid. Stir everything well. This combines all ingredients for your hearty ground beef goulash.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Bring the whole mixture to a boil. Use medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat. Let it simmer gently. Cover the pot loosely. Leave a small opening for steam. Stir every so often. This stops the pasta from sticking. Keep simmering for about 20 minutes. Cook until the elbow macaroni is tender. The noodles should soak up some liquid. Flavors meld together beautifully here.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Serve

Before serving your quick goulash, remove the bay leaves. Discard them. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. This makes a creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste the goulash. Adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle the hot goulash into bowls. Serve right away. This easy goulash recipe is a complete meal!

How to Store Easy Goulash Recipe

Leftover Easy Goulash Recipe keeps well. Store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, let the goulash cool first. Then, transfer to freezer-safe containers. It freezes nicely for 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stove. You can also use the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the pasta seems dry.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It will continue to soften as it sits.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. This ensures the best flavor.
• Ensure all ingredients are well-combined. This leads to even cooking.
• Use lean ground beef. This helps minimize excess grease.
• A Dutch oven or heavy pot works best. It provides even heating.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Easy Goulash Recipe, you’ll need a few basics.

• A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal.
• A trusty wooden spoon or spatula helps stir.
• Measuring cups and spoons are essential.
• A knife and cutting board prep veggies.
• Don’t forget a can opener for the tomatoes.
• A cheese grater is handy for topping.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Easy Goulash Recipe is a complete meal. But a few touches make it even better.

• Serve hot with crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping!
• A simple green salad balances the richness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley. A dollop of sour cream is lovely too.
• Pair with a light, crisp beer. Iced tea is also a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Easy Goulash Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this beef goulash is excellent made ahead. Prepare the whole dish and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Add extra liquid if needed. Stir in the cheese just before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have ground beef? Can I use a different meat for this goulash?

This recipe is designed for ground beef. You can adapt it with cubed beef chuck or stew meat. Brown the cubed meat first. Simmer it longer until tender. Then add pasta and sauce ingredients.

How can I make this a vegetarian goulash?

Omit the ground beef for a vegetarian goulash. Sauté onions and peppers in olive oil. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. Proceed with sauce ingredients and pasta. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

My pasta seems mushy. What went wrong with my Easy Goulash Recipe?

This happens with overcooked pasta. It also occurs if goulash sits too long. Cook pasta until al dente for best results. Stir cheese in after removing from heat. This stops residual heat cooking.

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