Easy Goulash - A Hearty One-pot Dinner

This Easy Goulash recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, comforting meal in a hurry. Made with lean ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and a rich tomato sauce, this one-pot dinner is as easy as it is delicious. Simply cook the beef and vegetables, add in the garlic, sauces, and seasonings, then let the pasta simmer in the broth until tender. Just before serving, stir in some shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve it up and enjoy this warm, comforting meal with your family.

Easy Goulash is the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and comforting. This classic recipe combines tender macaroni noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re making this dish for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit.

Let’s take a look at the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious goulash.

INGREDIENTS

• Ground Beef: 2 pounds of lean ground beef provide the base for this hearty dish. Cooking the beef with onions and bell peppers gives it a rich, savory flavor.
• Onion and Green Bell Pepper: 1 cup of diced onion and 1 diced green bell pepper add texture and flavor, complementing the beef and sauce.
• Garlic: 3 teaspoons of minced garlic bring an aromatic depth to the dish, making it more flavorful.
• Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: 2 (15 oz) cans of tomato sauce and 2 (15 oz) cans of petite diced tomatoes create the rich, savory sauce that binds the goulash together.
• Beef Broth: 3 cups of beef broth provide the liquid needed to cook the macaroni and add a beefy depth to the sauce.
• Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves add layers of flavor and seasoning to the dish.
• Macaroni Noodles: 2 cups of uncooked macaroni noodles are added directly to the pot to cook in the flavorful sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese is stirred in at the end to add a creamy, cheesy finish to the goulash.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then return the pot to the stove.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then, add 2 (15 oz) cans of tomato sauce, 2 (15 oz) cans of petite diced tomatoes, 3 cups of beef broth, 3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt, 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning, and 3 bay leaves. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add the Macaroni Noodles

Add 2 cups of uncooked macaroni noodles to the pot and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a light boil. Stir occasionally and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 4: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard them. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving, allowing it to melt into the goulash for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the goulash into bowls and serve it hot. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Serving and Storage Tips

• This Easy Goulash is best served hot, straight from the pot. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• For longer storage, this goulash can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the goulash to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes after the pasta has cooked.
• For a different flavor profile, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
• If you want a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while it cooks.

Tips from well-known chefs

• Gordon Ramsay: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of each serving for a tangy, creamy finish that complements the richness of the goulash.
• Rachael Ray: For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the macaroni in the pot for a minute or two before adding the liquid ingredients—it brings out a nutty aroma that enhances the dish.
• Ina Garten: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and beef broth for the best flavor in this simple dish. They make a big difference in the final result.