Classic Goulash

Classic Goulash is a warm, hearty, one-pot American comfort food that combines tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, aromatic spices, and pasta.

It’s a budget-friendly and family-approved meal that’s as nostalgic as it is satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!

Why People Will Love This Recipe:

One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup and simple steps.

Comforting and Filling: A rich, tomato-based dish with beef and pasta that’s both hearty and nostalgic.

Great for Meal Prep: Makes a large batch that reheats beautifully.

Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive, pantry-staple ingredients.

Kid-Approved: Mild flavors with plenty of cheesy or spicy upgrade options.

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef (85/15): Lean enough to avoid excess grease, but flavorful.

Onions, Bell Pepper & Garlic: Add sweetness and aroma to the base.

Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: Provide richness and body.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth.

Dried Herbs (Oregano & Basil): Bring classic Italian warmth.

Elbow Macaroni: The signature pasta that absorbs the flavorful sauce.

Classic Goulash

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef , (85/15)

2 yellow onions , chopped

1 green bell pepper , chopped

4 cloves garlic , chopped

3 cups water

29 ounces tomato sauce

29 ounces diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

8 ounces elbow macaroni , uncooked

Instructions:

Add the ground beef, onions, bell peppers and garlic to a large dutch oven on medium-high heat and cook it breaking it apart until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Drain most of the fat then add in the remaining ingredients except the macaroni, bring to a boil then reduce to a low heat and simmer with a cover on for 15 minutes.

Add in the macaroni, mix well then cover and simmer an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally before serving

Important Notes for Classic Goulash:

Choose the Right Ground Beef:
An 85/15 blend is ideal—it offers good flavor without being overly greasy. Be sure to drain excess fat after browning to keep the dish balanced and not oily.

Chop Veggies Uniformly:
Dice the onions, bell pepper, and garlic finely and evenly so they cook at the same rate and blend into the sauce smoothly.

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Simmer for Flavor:
Simmering the sauce before adding the pasta allows the flavors of the tomato, herbs, and Worcestershire to deepen and meld. Don’t skip this step!

Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
The macaroni cooks directly in the sauce, so stir occasionally and test a piece for doneness around the 15-minute mark to prevent mushy noodles.

Make it Creamy or Cheesy:
Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) just before serving for a richer, creamier goulash.

Add More Veggies (Optional):
You can boost nutrition and flavor by adding diced carrots, celery, zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach to the simmering sauce.

Use Broth for More Depth:
Replace some or all of the water with beef broth for a heartier, more savory flavor.

Make Ahead & Reheat Tips:
This goulash reheats well! Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to revive the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.

Double the Batch:
This recipe scales up well. Great for feeding a crowd or freezing half for later.

Spice it Up:
Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce for a kick of heat, if desired.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat for Classic Goulash?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or a meat alternative based on your dietary preferences.

What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?

You can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli as a substitute for elbow macaroni.

Is it necessary to drain the fat after cooking the ground beef?

Draining most of the fat helps reduce the overall fat content, but you can adjust based on your preferences.

Leaving a small amount can enhance flavor.

Can I make Classic Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, Goulash often tastes even better the next day.

Prepare it in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.

Is it okay to freeze Classic Goulash?

Yes, you can freeze Goulash.

Allow it to cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months.

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Classic Goulash is versatile.

You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with Classic Goulash?

It pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a green salad, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

What’s the difference between Goulash and Chili?

Goulash is a Hungarian dish with paprika-seasoned meat and vegetables, while chili is a spicier stew with ground chili peppers, meat, and beans, popular in the United States.

Can I make Classic Goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker.

Brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I adjust the seasoning to my liking?

Taste the Goulash before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or additional herbs according to your taste preferences.