This Easy Goulash recipe brings the essence of traditional comfort food right to your dinner table. The delightful combination of rich, savory tomato sauce with juicy ground beef and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni creates a harmony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re searching for a warm meal to cozy up with on a chilly evening or a quick and satisfying dish for a bustling weekday, this goulash fits the bill perfectly. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; with a few pantry staples and a single pot, you can whip up a hearty meal in no time. Vision steaming bowls of this delicious goulash, with its aromatic spices tantalizing your senses, making every scoop taste like a comforting hug.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Goulash
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Easy Goulash recipe:
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adjust flavors and ingredients to suit personal taste preferences.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of beef, tomato, and spices creates a classic comfort food experience.
- Quick to Prepare: Comes together in under an hour for a satisfying meal without the wait.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into preparing this delightful Easy Goulash, take a moment to arrange your kitchen space and gather the necessary tools. First, ensure your workspace is clean and spacious to accommodate chopping and stirring. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven as your main cookware, providing ample room for browning meat and brewing the sauce. A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula is recommended for stirring ingredients and ensuring even cooking. Having a sharp knife is crucial for efficient chopping of your onion and garlic, essential base flavors in this recipe. Pre-measure your spices to streamline the cooking process and have everything within arm’s reach. With these preparations in place, you’re all set to create a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking apart any clumps, until it’s evenly browned and fully cooked. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep your goulash from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Into the same pot, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your dish, infusing the beef with sweet and savory notes.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich, flavorful sauce that envelopes the pasta and beef beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Introduce the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring it through the sauce until evenly coated. Reduce the heat to low and let the goulash simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the macaroni absorbs the delicious sauce as it cooks through.
Variations
- Protein: Swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Vegetarians can substitute with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for protein-rich goulash.
- Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. These add both color and taste to your dish.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs like basil and parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Cooking Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers.
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth if preferred.
- Ensure macaroni is cooked al dente, so it retains its shape and does not become overly soft.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this goulash with a simple side salad for a complete meal that balances the hearty main dish with fresh greens.
- Top individual servings with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- For added depth, try browning the onions slightly before adding the garlic.
- A non-stick pot or well-seasoned Dutch oven can prevent sticking and help distribute heat evenly as the goulash cooks.
- If the mixture seems too thick, simply add a touch more broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 22g per serving
- Sodium: 650mg per serving
FAQs
Can I freeze goulash?
Yes, goulash can be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It should keep well frozen for up to three months.
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare goulash a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to re-establish the creamy consistency.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Small pasta shapes like shells or penne are great substitutes if you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand. They will seamlessly carry the sauce while providing an alternate texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free pasta options available in most stores, keeping the rest of the recipe unchanged for a delicious gluten-free meal.
Conclusion
With its rich tomato base and savory notes, Easy Goulash stands out as a beloved classic, perfect for any occasion. Using straightforward steps and versatile ingredients, this recipe offers not only a delightful dining experience but also a convenient cooking process. Whether you’re a time-conscious professional, a busy parent, or someone looking to enjoy the cozy feeling of a home-cooked meal, this goulash will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate to get creative—mix in your favorite veggies or seasonings to customize the dish to your liking. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your personal variations and experiences in the comments. Happy cooking!
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Easy Goulash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Goulash recipe brings the essence of traditional comfort food right to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking apart any clumps, until it’s evenly browned and fully cooked. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep your goulash from becoming greasy.
- Into the same pot, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your dish, infusing the beef with sweet and savory notes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich, flavorful sauce that envelopes the pasta and beef beautifully.
- Introduce the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring it through the sauce until evenly coated. Reduce the heat to low and let the goulash simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the macaroni absorbs the delicious sauce as it cooks through.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Protein: 22 g