There’s something truly comforting about the warmth of a freshly prepared goulash. As the rich aroma of ground beef and simmering tomatoes fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia; a reminder of hearty meals shared with family. This classic goulash with ground beef and elbow pasta captures the essence of comfort food, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or chilly evenings when you crave a homemade hug in a bowl.
The magic lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients transform into a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. With each tender bite, you’ll discover the harmony of spices and the delightful texture of perfectly cooked pasta, all effortlessly cooked in one pot! Let’s dive into this easy, family-friendly recipe that will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Why is Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta so beloved?
Comforting warmth: This hearty dish wraps you in a cozy embrace, making every bite a reminder of home-cooked nostalgia.
One-pot wonder: Save time and effort with minimal cleanup—everything cooks together in a single pan!
Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour.
Versatile delight: Customize it with veggies, swap proteins, or even go vegetarian for endless variations!
Family-friendly: It’s a guaranteed hit among both kids and adults, transforming dinner into a joyous occasion.
Budget-friendly: Affordable and filling, this recipe makes hearty meals accessible for every kitchen.
Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta Ingredients
• Dive into the heart of comfort food with this easy recipe!
For the Goulash
- Ground Beef – A primary protein source that adds depth and flavor; can be substituted with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter meal.
- Elbow Pasta – The perfect shape to soak up the savory sauce; opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Onion (diced) – Adds a sweet and savory foundation when sautéed; yellow or white onions work beautifully.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes (canned) – Provides acidity and moisture; fire-roasted varieties are great for an extra flavor punch.
- Tomato Sauce (canned) – The luscious base for the goulash; homemade tomato puree can be a delightful substitute.
- Beef Broth – Enhances the richness of the sauce; feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter touch.
- Paprika – Offers warmth and a hint of smokiness; smoked paprika is an excellent twist for more depth.
- Dried Oregano – Infuses a herbaceous note; Italian seasoning can work in a pinch if you don’t have oregano.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your personal taste preference.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional) – Melts beautifully on top for a creamy finish; can be skipped for a dairy-free option.
How to Make Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed for a leaner dish.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for your goulash.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together, about 5 minutes.
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Add the Pasta: Toss in the uncooked elbow pasta, stir well, and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the delicious sauce.
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Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, delightful topping.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its flavors deepen and improve the next day, making it an even more delightful meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure it’s sealed tightly with minimal air inside.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals.
Texture Note: Be mindful that the pasta may soften slightly when frozen and reheated, but the comforting flavors will still shine through in your goulash with ground beef and pasta.
What to Serve with Classic Goulash with Ground Beef and Elbow Pasta?
Enhance your delightful goulash experience by pairing it with options that balance flavors and textures.
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Buttered Bread: Soft, warm buttered bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy tomato sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the goulash, offering a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a sweet and savory complement, adding colorful nutrition and depth to your dinner table.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these breadsticks make a fun and tasty accompaniment, ideal for mopping up every last bit of goulash.
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Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds crunch and a zesty note, enhancing the comfort food experience with its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
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Sweet Dessert: A slice of chocolate cake or warm apple pie brings a satisfying finish to your meal, balancing the savory flavors with a sweet treat.
Mix and match from these options to create a meal that wraps everyone in the joy of home cooking!
Expert Tips for Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta
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Brown the Beef: Ensure the ground beef is well browned before adding other ingredients; this enhances the overall flavor of your goulash.
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Watch the Pasta: Avoid overcooking the elbow pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to soften from residual heat.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; these essential seasonings elevate the flavors in your goulash with ground beef and pasta.
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Mind the Broth: For a rich sauce, use beef broth instead of water; it adds depth, while vegetable broth offers a lighter option.
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Cheese Melting: For the best creamy finish, let the cheese sit for a couple of minutes after cooking, allowing it to melt beautifully before serving.
Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta Variations
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Let your taste buds wander as you explore these exciting twists.
- Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey for a lighter yet still hearty option, maintaining the comforting flavors of goulash.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or peas to the mix for an extra dose of color and nutrition, making each bite more vibrant.
- Lentil Love: For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based alternative, ensuring a protein-rich meal.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you crave a bit of heat. This adds a fiery zing that enhances the dish’s warmth.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a rich, creamy texture that elevates the entire goulash experience.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors, adding a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the richness.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a gooey, flavor-packed layer. Each cheese brings its own distinctive twist to this beloved dish.
- No Pasta Needed: For a low-carb alternative, replace elbow pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice, transforming it into a healthy, veggie-packed delight.
Make Ahead Options
These Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire goulash mixture (without the pasta) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Simply brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic together, before mixing in the tomatoes, sauce, broth, and spices. Store this mixture in an airtight container for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the mixture in a pot, add the uncooked elbow pasta, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender for a hearty meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This method saves time and ensures you have a comforting dinner on busy evenings!
Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe tomatoes for the goulash?
Absolutely! When selecting canned diced tomatoes, aim for those labeled as “fire-roasted” for an extra flavor boost. If using fresh tomatoes, look for ones that are plump, vibrant, and free of dark spots. A slight give when gently squeezed indicates ripeness—these will meld beautifully into your goulash.
How should I store leftover goulash?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To maximize flavor, let the goulash sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating, which helps maintain taste integrity.
Can I freeze goulash with ground beef and pasta?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove with a splash of broth for moisture.
What should I do if my goulash turns out too watery?
Should that happen, worry not! You can thicken your goulash by letting it simmer uncovered on low heat for a further 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow excess liquid to evaporate. Additionally, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to help thicken the sauce quickly.
Is this goulash recipe suitable for those with dietary allergies?
Definitely! For anyone with gluten sensitivities, just substitute elbow pasta with a gluten-free option. You can also customize the recipe to be dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always be cautious with seasonings to avoid those containing allergens.
Can I use a different type of protein in this recipe?
Very much so! If you prefer a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat alternative to maintain the hearty and comforting flavor while catering to different dietary preferences.
Heartwarming Goulash with Ground Beef and Pasta Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; sauté until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss in the uncooked elbow pasta, stir well, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top; let it sit for a couple of minutes to melt.