Classic Goulash Recipe – One-Pot Dinner with Ground Beef, Macaroni & Tomatoes
This Classic Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. Made with ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices, it’s a nostalgic dish that’s both budget-friendly and satisfying. Simmered to perfection, this American-style goulash is easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for leftovers. Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Grater (optional for cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups beef broth or water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire or soy sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup mushrooms or zucchini, chopped
- Chili flakes or hot sauce for heat
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned and fragrant (about 7 minutes).
- Drain Fat: Remove excess grease for a cleaner flavor.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire or soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Pasta: Stir in uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Optional Cheese Finish: Stir in shredded cheese or sprinkle on top and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- Avoid mushy pasta: Cook just until al dente.
- Balance acidity: Add a pinch of sugar if the tomato sauce is too tangy.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.
- Healthier swaps: Use whole wheat or lentil pasta, lean meat, and low-sodium broth.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth.