Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

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There’s a reason why goulash has become a treasured classic on dinner tables across the country. This hearty and comforting dish blends the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and tangy tomato sauce into one unforgettable one-pot wonder. With its old-school roots and modern-day simplicity, it’s a recipe that satisfies bellies and hearts alike.

Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this American-style goulash is a family favorite that comes together in just one pan. Not only does it make clean-up easy, but it also fills your kitchen with a warm, nostalgic aroma that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s savory, filling, and endlessly customizable—a true comfort food staple.

Why You’ll Love This Goulash

This recipe checks every box: fast, budget-friendly, kid-approved, and freezer-friendly. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it took hours to make, but really comes together in under an hour. The beef is seasoned and browned to perfection, while the pasta soaks up all the saucy goodness. You can dress it up with cheese or keep it simple—either way, it’s absolutely delicious.

It also feeds a crowd without much fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your household or bringing it to a potluck, this goulash delivers every time. And the leftovers? Just as tasty the next day.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Traditionally, elbow macaroni is the go-to for American goulash. Its shape holds onto the sauce and blends perfectly with ground beef. However, you can easily swap in shell pasta or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to choose a short pasta that cooks evenly in the sauce without becoming mushy. Be sure to add it at the right moment so it absorbs flavor without overcooking.

Ingredients for the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

The beauty of this goulash lies in its simplicity. A handful of pantry staples and a few fridge must-haves create a dish that feels gourmet with minimal effort. Here’s what you need:

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Elbow macaroni
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Bay leaves
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Each ingredient adds its own layer of flavor, but together, they create that rich, saucy comfort dish we know and love.

How To Make the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings: paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drop in the bay leaves. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the mixture is simmering, stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover and let it cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Serve and Top

Remove the bay leaves. Spoon the goulash into bowls and top with shredded cheese if you’d like a creamy finish.

Storing and Serving Your Goulash

This goulash feeds around 6 to 8 hungry eaters. It’s a generous dish that stores beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking. If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce. It tastes just as good, if not better, the next day.

What to Serve With Goulash?

Garlic Bread

A crispy loaf of buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich tomato sauce.

Garden Salad

A fresh side salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds balance to the hearty main dish.

Roasted Broccoli

Simple roasted broccoli adds color and crunch. Plus, it’s easy to prep while the goulash simmers.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

The acidity from pickles cuts through the richness of the goulash and adds a flavorful bite.

Cornbread

Sweet, crumbly cornbread makes a tasty contrast to the savory beef and pasta mix.

Green Beans

A classic, comforting veggie side that complements this down-home dish perfectly.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp cucumber salad helps refresh your palate between bites.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this goulash, check out more of our hearty favorites:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a velvety twist on pasta night.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you crave simplicity in a skillet.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for indulgent flavor overload.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta to keep that comfort food train going.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you want bold, smoky flavor.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you spiced yours up or kept it traditional. Did you add bell peppers or use cheddar on top? Everyone’s take is different, and that’s what makes this goulash fun to cook and share.

Explore more homey, soul-warming meals over on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find something delicious to try tonight.

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