There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, comforting bowl of Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Combining tender, flavorful ground beef with tender macaroni soaked in a rich and tangy tomato sauce, this dish is both hearty and simple enough for any weeknight dinner. The medley of spices, fresh vegetables, and the bold kick from Worcestershire sauce all blend together to create a timeless recipe that pleases both kids and adults alike. If you’ve been searching for a one-pot wonder that shines with comfort and deliciousness, this Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe is your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing a Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from texture to flavor to color, ensuring the final dish is a vibrant and satisfying meal.
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, savory tang that perfectly enhances the beef’s flavor.
- 3 bay leaves: Infuses subtle herbal notes; be sure to remove them before serving.
- 30 oz petite diced tomatoes: Offers a fresh, tomatoey bite with just the right chunkiness.
- 1 cup diced onion: Provides a slightly sweet, aromatic base to build flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped): Brings a crisp texture and a mild, peppery bite.
- 3 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): Creates a flavorful and rich cooking liquid for the noodles and beef.
- 30 oz tomato sauce: Acts as a rich, smooth backbone for the sauce, especially with quality brands like San Marzano.
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (dried): Gives a fragrant mix of herbs that brighten and deepen the dish’s profile.
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni noodles: These little pasta shapes soak up the sauce perfectly, providing a satisfying chew.
- 3 tsp minced garlic: Lends a punch of aromatic pungency that rounds out the savory flavors.
- 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 blend): The hearty protein star of the meal, balancing richness without too much grease.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin): Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies with a smooth, fruity touch.
- 2 tsp seasoned salt: Enhances every ingredient, making the whole dish pop with flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For melting atop the goulash, adding creamy, melty indulgence to each bite.
How to Make Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
First things first, dice your onion, chop the green bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable without scrambling. Drain any excess liquid from the canned tomatoes if desired, or keep it for a saucier consistency.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s no longer pink and starts to get a little crusty on the edges—this adds delicious flavor. Drain off excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too oily.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics
To the browned beef, add diced onions, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften, about 5 minutes. This step develops sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes later on.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Sauces, and Seasonings
Pour in the petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in Worcestereshire sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and toss in the bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so all the rich flavors can marry in one pot.
Step 5: Cook the Macaroni Noodles
Add the uncooked macaroni directly into the simmering sauce mixture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed much of the flavorful liquid. The pasta cooking right in the sauce means fewer dishes and more robust flavor.
Step 6: Finish With Cheese
Once the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the bay leaves. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the pan, and let it melt into gooey perfection for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to Serve Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
To bring an extra fresh and colorful pop, garnish your goulash with chopped fresh parsley or chopped green onions. These brighten the rich, meaty flavors and add a nice visual contrast. A dollop of sour cream can also add a creamy cooling touch that balances the tomato acidity wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or buttered steamed vegetables. These sides add textural variety and keep the meal balanced with fresh and crunchy elements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice instead of macaroni. You could also use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or even a hearty base for nachos topped with jalapeños and sour cream for a party appetizer version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your goulash, store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as the dish sits, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To keep the cheese creamy and fresh, consider adding a fresh sprinkle after reheating rather than freezing it mixed in.
Reheating
Reheat your goulash gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or use a microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick to maintain that perfect saucy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the goulash?
Absolutely! While classic elbow macaroni works wonderfully, you can switch to penne, rotini, or even small shells, depending on your preference or what’s on hand. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for a delicious vegetarian twist that keeps the hearty texture and bold flavors.
What’s the best way to thicken the goulash if it turns out too watery?
If your goulash is a bit too thin, stirring in a small slurry of cornstarch and water while simmering can thicken the sauce quickly. Alternatively, letting it simmer uncovered for a little longer helps reduce excess liquid naturally.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in the slow cooker with the liquids and pasta added toward the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking the noodles.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat?
This recipe has a mild spice level, mainly built on savory and aromatic herbs. Feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick without overwhelming the comforting flavors.
Final Thoughts
Making this Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a big, flavorful blanket of comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding friends, this dish always hits the spot. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
Print
Classic Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Ground Beef Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring lean ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish combines robust flavors with simple ingredients for an easy yet satisfying weeknight recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 blend)
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 bay leaves (remove before serving)
- 30 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 30 oz tomato sauce (San Marzano recommended)
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for lighter flavor)
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (dried)
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tsp minced garlic
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni noodles (Barilla recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for melting)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onions and green bell pepper, mince the garlic, and measure out all other ingredients to have them ready for cooking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, bay leaves, petite diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Macaroni: Add the uncooked macaroni noodles directly into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors.
- Final Touch and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot goulash, cover for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic dish.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Stir occasionally when cooking noodles in the sauce to prevent sticking.
- Remove bay leaves before serving as they are not edible.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
