Classic Beef Goulash

This rustic Goulash turns basic items into a filling, cozy dinner. The mix of juicy ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and flavorful tomato sauce makes a soothing meal that takes you back to childhood suppers. Every bite delivers just the right taste combo that's made this American favorite so popular. Throughout my time cooking for hectic households, this goulash became my favorite comfort food. When I first brought it to a community dinner, people were amazed that such basic ingredients could taste so rich.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Ground Beef: Go with 80/20 for optimal taste and moisture Elbow Macaroni: This traditional shape traps sauce wonderfully Tomatoes: Using both chunks and sauce makes the perfect thickness Beef Broth: Brings extra flavor and fullness to the mixture Italian Seasoning: Forms the aromatic background Paprika: Adds gentle heat and beautiful color

Crafting Delicious Home Cooking

Start Strong Make sure beef is fully browned to build rich taste. Add Aromatics Cook onions and garlic until soft and sweet. Develop The Sauce Mix tomato products and spices gently. Handle Pasta Carefully Watch cooking time for best texture. Top It Off Sprinkle with cheese if you want extra goodness.

Pin it

My grandma always told me, 'Good goulash needs to sit so the flavors can blend together.' After making countless batches, I know she was absolutely right.

Perfect Pairings

Enjoy with buttery garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or simple cooked veggies. For an extra touch of comfort, add some fresh cheese on top and a sprinkle of parsley.

Tasty Twists

Switch things up by tossing in some colorful peppers, trying different pasta shapes, or mixing in some Italian sausage. Want something lighter? Try ground turkey and whole grain pasta instead.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Keep in sealed containers up to four days. When warming up, add a little broth to bring back the original texture. Over many years tweaking this dish, I've learned that taking your time and watching the details really counts. This goulash hits that sweet spot between easy and satisfying, making a meal that brings warmth to every dining table.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can you freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Let it cool first, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge and warm it up slowly, adding a touch of stock if needed.

→ What can I use instead of macaroni?

Pick any small pasta—like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time to match the macaroni.

→ How can I make it friendlier for kids?

Go easy on the pepper, swap in mild paprika, and sprinkle extra cheese on top. Serve with some garlic bread—they’ll love it!

→ Will ground turkey work for this?

Of course! Turkey is a fine substitute. Just spice it a bit more since it’s not as flavorful as beef.

→ What if it turns out too watery?

Keep simmering without the lid for a bit to thicken it up. Don’t worry, the pasta will eventually soak up the extra liquid too!