This Classic Ground Beef Goulash is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and easy to make in just one pot. Made with seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a cozy, family-favorite dinner that comes together quickly.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of American goulash with this easy goulash recipe.
What Makes Classic Ground Beef Goulash Special
Classic Ground Beef Goulash is a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. This hearty meal combines seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, and vibrant bell peppers, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
Often referred to as American Goulash, this one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a satisfying experience for the whole family. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a nostalgic taste that many associate with home-cooked meals.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this easy goulash recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this ground beef goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Ground beef serves as the hearty base, providing protein and richness. The addition of elbow macaroni adds a delightful texture, while the bell peppers contribute a burst of color and sweetness.
Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes create a savory backdrop, enhanced by Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Each component plays a vital role in crafting a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Creating this classic goulash is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot, allowing it to develop flavor. Next, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they soften, releasing their aromatic qualities.
Once the vegetables are ready, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Finally, add the elbow macaroni and let it simmer until tender.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This one-pot goulash is versatile enough to serve on various occasions.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please. Its hearty nature makes it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Plus, it can easily be scaled up or down, making it suitable for any number of servings.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
When it comes to serving, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top adds a delightful finishing touch.
Pair the goulash with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or even incorporating spices for an extra kick.
Why Homemade Goulash is the Best
Homemade goulash stands out for its freshness and the ability to customize ingredients to suit personal tastes.
Unlike store-bought options, this classic goulash recipe allows you to control the flavors and quality of ingredients.
Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a meal from scratch, knowing it’s made with love and care.
Easy One Pot Goulash Recipe
This ground beef goulash features browned beef combined with aromatic vegetables and simmered in a savory tomato base before adding pasta to cook until tender. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g