Ground Beef Goulash

Name: Ground Beef Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty ground beef goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for any dinner.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:12:37.735Z

Ground beef goulash is a classic dish that brings back memories of family dinners. It's simple to make, yet full of flavor, and perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. With its comforting mix of ingredients, it's sure to become a favorite in your home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavor that satisfies your hunger
Easy to prepare with common pantry ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Comfort of One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy families and individuals alike. They combine convenience and flavor, offering a hearty dish that requires minimal cleanup. Ground beef goulash exemplifies this, as all ingredients come together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

Moreover, one-pot meals are incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots to boost nutrition, or swap the elbow macaroni for another pasta shape. This flexibility not only caters to your dietary needs but also keeps the recipe exciting and fresh every time you make it.

Meal Prep and Leftover Perfection

Ground beef goulash is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can even be frozen for longer preservation. When reheating, it maintains its rich flavors and comforting texture, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays. Simply portion it into individual containers, and you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go.

Leftovers can be reimagined in numerous ways. Consider using them as a filling for stuffed peppers or layering them in a baked pasta dish. This not only minimizes food waste but also brings a new twist to your meals, ensuring you never get bored with the same dish.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider pairing ground beef goulash with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty goulash. The crispness of the salad complements the rich, savory flavors of the dish, enhancing your dining experience.

If you're looking for a heartier accompaniment, garlic bread or crusty rolls can be a fantastic addition. The bread can soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite a delight. Additionally, a glass of red wine or a light beer can elevate the meal, providing a perfect balance to the robust flavors of the goulash.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is cooked and the sauce is thickened.

Serve

Top with shredded cheese if desired and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious goulash with a side of bread or salad!

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef goulash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also provides important vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc, which play vital roles in overall health.

The addition of vegetables such as bell peppers and tomatoes adds a wealth of vitamins A and C, along with dietary fiber, promoting digestive health. By incorporating these ingredients into your meals, you can enjoy a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.

Customizing Your Goulash

One of the best aspects of ground beef goulash is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences. If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce. For a touch of sweetness, a sprinkle of sugar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Vegetarians or those looking for a lighter option can replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. This not only caters to different dietary preferences but also allows you to explore new flavor combinations while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Goulash stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.

→ What can I serve with goulash?

It's great on its own, but you can serve it with bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables.