Goulash Recipe With Ground Beef

I often find myself craving a meal that’s both comforting and quick, especially after a busy day. This simple goulash recipe with ground beef perfectly fits the bill, filling my kitchen with an incredible aroma as it simmers. It’s the ultimate hearty, family-friendly dish, perfect for cozy evenings without breaking the bank. We’ve perfected this classic to make it incredibly easy for every home cook, even when time is tight. Get ready for a flavorful, comforting meal that’s on your table fast, making easy dinner ideas a reality.

Ingredient Essentials and Smart Substitutions

Crafting a delicious goulash recipe with ground beef starts with understanding your ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building that classic, comforting flavor. Choosing quality items makes all the difference for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Here’s what you’ll need, with some notes on their purpose and smart swaps:

• Ground Beef (1 lb / 450g, 80/20 or lean): The hearty protein base that makes this dish so filling. (Try grass-fed for richer flavor and extra nutrients!)
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp / 15ml): For sautéing and building a flavorful base.
• Yellow Onion (1 large, chopped): An essential aromatic, softening to add sweetness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a warm, pungent depth. (Garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re out of fresh.)
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz / 410g can, undrained): For rich, tangy depth and body. (Look for no-sugar-added varieties for a healthy choice.)
• Tomato Sauce (15 oz / 425g can): Contributes to the smooth, rich sauce texture.
• Beef Broth (2 cups / 500ml): Deepens the overall savory flavor. (I’ve used both low-sodium broth and water successfully, depending on what I have.)
• Elbow Macaroni (1.5 cups / 150g, dry): The classic small pasta for hearty texture that soaks up the sauce. (Or use small shells or ditalini for a similar effect.)
• Sweet Paprika (1 tbsp / 15ml): Gives goulash its signature color and warm, earthy taste.
• Bay Leaf (1): Adds a subtle, aromatic background note.
• Sea Salt (1 tsp / 5ml): Enhances all the flavors.
• Black Pepper (0.5 tsp / 2.5ml, freshly ground): For a gentle, fresh bite.

For a truly high-protein and nutrient-dense version, consider organic ingredients where possible. Opting for lean ground beef and whole wheat pasta (if you want extra fiber) makes this goulash recipe with ground beef an even better choice for your healthy eating goals.

Quick tips for sourcing ingredients efficiently: check local butchers for quality ground beef for that rich flavor. Buying canned goods in bulk can offer savings, and for ultimate convenience, consider using a grocery delivery service to bring everything right to your door.

Step-by-Step Goulash Recipe Instructions

Making this goulash recipe with ground beef is simpler than you might think, especially since it’s largely a one-pot meal. Follow these steps for a comforting dinner that delivers big on flavor.

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s evenly browned and no pink remains. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-6 minutes, releasing a sweet fragrance.
3. Build the Flavor: Stir in 1 (14.5 oz / 410g) can undrained diced tomatoes, 1 (15 oz / 425g) can tomato sauce, 2 cups (500ml) beef broth, 1 tbsp (15ml) sweet paprika, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp (5ml) sea salt, and 0.5 tsp (2.5ml) black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, where you’ll see small bubbles forming at the edges. If the mixture seems too thick, splash in an extra 1/4 cup (60ml) of broth or water here.
4. Add Pasta: Stir in 1.5 cups (150g) dry elbow macaroni. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom.
5. Finish and Serve: Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf. The goulash should look rich and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. Let the goulash recipe with ground beef sit for 5 minutes off the heat, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly more before serving.

To make this an even quicker meal prep recipe, try chopping your onions and mincing garlic ahead of time. This one-pot wonder comes together beautifully in a large 6-quart Dutch oven, making cleanup a breeze, perfect for quick meals.

For a spicier kick, my family sometimes adds a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices in step 3. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a small portion of the cooked pasta and sauce against the side of the pot with your spoon and stir it back in. This family-friendly approach means everyone gets exactly what they love.

Ideal Serving Times and Storage Tips

Our comforting goulash recipe with ground beef is incredibly versatile for any meal plan.

• Occasions: Perfect for a cozy Sunday supper, a quick weeknight dinner, or a comforting potluck dish for friends and family. It’s also excellent for feeding a crowd or as an easy meal prep option.
• Pairing ideas:
  • Sides: Crusty bread, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or tender steamed green beans.
  • Drinks: Refreshing iced tea, a light red wine, or sparkling water with a fresh lemon wedge.
• Storage:
  • Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating best practices: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out the pasta and sauce, keeping your goulash recipe with ground beef as delicious as day one.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Benefits of This Goulash Recipe

This easy, hearty meal offers fantastic nutritional benefits for your active lifestyle.

• High-protein: Ground beef provides essential protein for muscle repair and satiety, keeping you feeling full and energized longer.
• Energy boost: Complex carbohydrates from the pasta offer sustained energy, perfect for active days or busy schedules.
• Vegetable rich: Tomatoes and onions contribute important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your meal, supporting healthy eating.

Our goulash recipe with ground beef easily fits various diet trends and wellness goals:

• An excellent example of healthy dinner recipes when choosing lean beef and whole grains.
• A satisfying and filling protein-packed meal, great for active lifestyles and post-workout recovery.
• Makes for superb easy meal prep, simplifying your week’s meals and encouraging consistent healthy eating habits.
• Can be adapted into weight loss friendly dishes with smart ingredient swaps like cauliflower rice for pasta.

How This Recipe Solves Everyday Needs

This convenient family-friendly dish is a true solution for your daily kitchen challenges.

• Family meals made simple: A delicious dish everyone will love, picky eaters included, making family dinners stress-free.
• Helps with fitness goals: Provides balanced macros for an active lifestyle and recovery, supporting your overall wellness.
• Saving time in the kitchen: A one-pot wonder means less cleanup and more free time for what matters most.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, readily available ingredients for a satisfying, hearty meal that won’t break the bank.

I often make a double batch of this comforting goulash recipe with ground beef on Sundays; it makes my weeknight dinners a breeze, giving me more time for family activities.

Advanced Tips and Customizations

Elevate your ground beef goulash with these simple adjustments.

• Flavor enhancements:
  • Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving for extra richness and a pop of color.
  • A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add deeper umami notes and complexity.
• Kid-friendly or picky-eater adjustments:
  • Cut vegetables very small for hidden nutrition that even the fussiest eaters might not notice.
  • Serve pasta and sauce separately for hesitant eaters, allowing them to mix themselves.
  • A sprinkle of mild cheddar cheese can encourage trying new flavors and add a creamy touch.
• Allergy-conscious swaps and safe alternatives:
  • Nightshade allergy: Use a cream-based sauce (e.g., béchamel with vegetable broth) or a white bean puree for thickness instead of tomatoes.
  • Beef allergy: Swap for lean ground turkey, ground chicken, or a hearty lentil base for a delicious alternative.

FAQs

Can this goulash recipe with ground beef be part of a weekly meal prep plan?

Yes, absolutely! This hearty dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for preparing healthy lunches or dinners in advance for busy schedules. It’s an ideal easy meal prep recipe.

Where can I buy fresh ingredients for this goulash recipe with ground beef online?

Many grocery delivery services like Instacart or local supermarket apps offer fresh ground beef, quality canned tomatoes, and pantry staples right to your door, adding to your convenience for this delicious meal.

Is this goulash recipe with ground beef suitable for weight management diets?

It can be! Opt for lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and increase vegetable content to make it more calorie-conscious while still enjoying its hearty, protein-packed flavor. It fits well into healthy eating plans.

How can I make this goulash recipe with ground beef spicier?

For a pleasant kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices when building the flavor. You can always adjust to your preferred heat level for this hearty goulash.

Can I use different types of pasta in my ground beef goulash?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or rotini work well as substitutes. Just ensure they cook through within the recipe’s liquid amount and specified time for the best texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover goulash with ground beef?

I always add a splash of beef broth or even just a bit of water when reheating on the stovetop; it keeps the pasta from drying out and the sauce perfectly saucy, just like when it was fresh. Gently reheat over medium-low heat.

Conclusion

This easy goulash recipe with ground beef is truly a lifesaver for busy families, delivering maximum comfort with minimal effort. I always feel satisfied making this quick, family-friendly dinner. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for future easy meals!

goulash recipe with ground beef

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• Author: Lauren Mitchell
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This simple goulash recipe with ground beef is a comforting, hearty, and family-friendly one-pot meal that comes together quickly, perfect for busy evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 or lean
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1.5 cups elbow macaroni, dry
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

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Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s evenly browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
2. Saute Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Build the Flavor: Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can undrained diced tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp sweet paprika, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp sea salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. (If the mixture seems too thick, splash in an extra 0.25 cup of broth or water here.)
4. Add Pasta: Stir in 1.5 cups dry elbow macaroni. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom.
5. Finish and Serve: Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf. The goulash should look rich and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. Let the goulash sit for 5 minutes off the heat, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly more before serving.

Notes

For richer flavor, try grass-fed ground beef. Garlic powder works in a pinch if you are out of fresh garlic. Use low-sodium broth or water successfully, depending on what you have. For extra fiber, consider whole wheat pasta. To make this an even quicker meal prep recipe, chop your onions and mince garlic ahead of time. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices in step 3. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a small portion of the cooked pasta and sauce against the side of the pot with your spoon and stir it back in.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 330 calories
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg