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.