Name: Comforting Ground Beef Goulash: 5 Steps to Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Comforting Ground Beef Goulash is a dish that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights. This hearty one-pot meal features elbow macaroni, seasoned beef, and rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect comfort food goulash for those chilly evenings. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or planning a meal prep, this easy ground beef goulash recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and feed the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

There are many reasons to adore this hearty beef goulash dish. First, it’s a quick goulash recipe for families, allowing you to whip up dinner in just 35 minutes. Second, it’s a simple one-pot beef goulash that minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for those hectic nights. Third, the combination of beef and pasta provides a filling meal that keeps everyone happy. Additionally, this dish is versatile—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it. Lastly, it embodies the essence of comfort food goulash, offering warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredients for Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Comforting Ground Beef Goulash Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 2: Add ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Remove the bay leaf. Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
It works well for meal prep.
Great for feeding the whole family.
For extra flavor, consider adding the best spices for beef goulash, such as cumin or chili powder.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta or even mix in some vegetables for added nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying dinner.
Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the goulash.

How to Store and Reheat Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

To store leftovers, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish is also a fantastic option for meal prep, as it freezes beautifully for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

What is goulash made of?

Typically, goulash is made of ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and various seasonings. This traditional goulash with ground beef is a versatile dish that can be adapted based on personal preferences.

Why is goulash a comfort food?

Goulash is considered comfort food because it’s hearty, filling, and evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The familiar flavors remind many of home-cooked meals shared with family.

How to prepare goulash with beef and vegetables?

To prepare goulash with beef and vegetables, simply add your choice of chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, during the cooking process. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the flavor profile.

Variations of Comforting Ground Beef Goulash You Can Try

Feel free to explore these variations:

Make it a slow cooker ground beef goulash by following the same steps but cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Try using different pasta shapes to change up the texture.
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup as a comforting side dish. If you’re interested in meal prep, our slow cooker Korean beef is a great option!

For a deeper understanding of goulash and its origins, you can visit The Spruce Eats for a comprehensive overview.

Comforting Ground Beef Goulash: 5 Steps to Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Comfort Food

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Description

This comforting ground beef goulash is a hearty one-pot dinner recipe featuring elbow macaroni, seasoned beef, and rich tomato sauce.

Instructions

In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Pour in beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Remove the bay leaf. Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.