If you’ve ever craved a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then you are going to absolutely love The Best Goulash Recipe. This classic dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce sprinkled with just the right amount of paprika and herbs. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that delivers a deliciously satisfying experience in every bite, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The Best Goulash Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the dish’s signature depth of flavor, inviting textures, and vibrant color that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Use lean or regular ground beef for that rich, meaty base that brings heartiness to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle texture contrast once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides freshness and a tangy undertone in the sauce.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup beef broth (or water): Offers moisture and richness, helping the pasta cook in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami punch that deepens the savory taste.
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked or regular): The star spice that delivers mild warmth and a lovely color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a touch of earthiness balancing the tomato acidity.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweetness and an herbaceous note to complement the other spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat and depth to round out the palate.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta): The perfect shape to soak up all that rich sauce and provide comforting bites.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping): Melts over the top for an irresistible cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds brightness and a pop of color for a fresh finish.
How to Make The Best Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spoon to ensure even cooking. This step is essential because browning the beef develops the deep savory flavors that form the backbone of the dish. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the goulash from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic right into the pot with the beef. Cook everything together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This stage builds that irresistible fragrance and slightly sweet undertone which balances the acidity of the tomatoes later on.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Now comes the heart of the sauce. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture gently to a simmer, allowing the spices to meld and the sauce to thicken just a bit. This harmonious blend of ingredients gives The Best Goulash Recipe its signature hearty, comforting taste that you’ll want to savor spoonful after spoonful.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once your sauce is simmering nicely, stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and let everything bubble away for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the delicious sauce. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a splash of broth or water if the goulash looks too thick. This method infuses every bit of pasta with those robust tomato and beef flavors that make this dish so crave-worthy.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Add Cheese
After the macaroni is perfectly cooked, taste your goulash and tweak the seasoning if needed—that’s how you make this The Best Goulash Recipe uniquely yours. If you love a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into gooey, delicious goodness right before serving. It’s a simple step that elevates the dish to a whole new level of comfort food bliss.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the goulash hot, right out of the pot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herb flavor. This dish feels like a warm embrace with every spoonful, perfect for sharing at the dinner table or packing for a cozy lunch the next day.
How to Serve The Best Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a lovely touch of green but also lifts the flavors with a hint of brightness. For cheese fans, add a generous handful of shredded cheddar or even a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
While The Best Goulash Recipe is a complete, hearty meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or crusty bread to mop up every last bite of sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables also work nicely to add some freshness and balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash in individual bread bowls or stuff it into bell peppers for a colorful and family-friendly presentation. You can also sprinkle different cheeses or herbs on top to customize the flavors. Whether on a casual weeknight or a cozy weekend, these ideas will make your goulash feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Goulash Recipe reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the pasta tender.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious meal later, freezing is a great option. Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be aware that some pasta may become slightly softer after freezing, but the flavor stays amazing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to dig in again, gently reheat your goulash on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce for that perfectly saucy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in The Best Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to swap in small shells, rotini, or even penne—anything that can soak up the sauce nicely and hold a bit of bite.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version that still captures the spirit of this cozy dish.
Can I make The Best Goulash Recipe on the stovetop only?
Definitely. This recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, making it easy to prepare in one pot without any oven use. It’s straightforward and perfect for casual meals.
What can I use if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can replace it with a splash of soy sauce or a few dashes of balsamic vinegar to add some depth and umami flavor to the sauce.
How spicy is this goulash? Can I adjust the heat?
This recipe is mild, focusing on warmth from the paprika rather than heat. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking to give it a kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about The Best Goulash Recipe that makes it a staple in any comfort food rotation. Its easy preparation, rich flavors, and hearty goodness create a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again whenever you want a meal that’s satisfying, delicious, and made with love.
Print
The Best Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting classic American goulash made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered together in a flavorful sauce seasoned with paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. This easy one-pot meal comes together quickly and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing a fragrant base for the sauce.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is cooked, add a little more broth or water as needed.
- Adjust Seasoning and Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked through, taste the goulash and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt for a creamy finish.
- Serve: Serve the goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth with water if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Using smoked paprika adds a nice depth and smokiness to the dish but regular paprika works well too.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
- If the goulash thickens too much upon standing, stir in a splash of water or broth when reheating.
