There are some meals that just feel like home, and goulash is definitely one of them. This hearty, comforting dish combines ground beef, pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, creating the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors. It’s the kind of recipe you can’t help but go back for seconds (or thirds!)—and trust me, you won’t want to stop eating! It’s no wonder I swear this recipe was sent straight from heaven—it’s that good!
Goulash is one of those easy, one-pot dishes that’s both affordable and delicious. While there are many variations of goulash, this version is truly the best because of its flavor-packed sauce, tender beef, and cheesy goodness. The combination of tomato sauce, onions, garlic, and a variety of seasonings creates a flavorful base that perfectly complements the pasta and beef. You can even add a bit of cheese for extra creaminess, making it the kind of comfort food you’ll crave again and again.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this hearty goulash is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your preferences, and it will leave everyone at the table asking for the recipe.
The Best Goulash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can use lean beef or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (or water, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any small pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended for cheesy goulash)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Once the sauce is simmering, add the elbow macaroni (or your choice of small pasta). Stir well to combine. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Check the pasta for doneness, and once it’s cooked through, remove the pot from the heat.
- Add Cheese (Optional, but Delicious!):
- For the cheesiest goulash ever, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy texture. This step is totally optional, but it makes the dish so rich and indulgent!
- Serve:
- Once everything is combined and the cheese has melted, serve your goulash hot. It’s perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Goulash:
- Meat: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless substitute if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Veggies: Add some green bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition. Simply chop and sauté them with the onions in the beginning.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even cream cheese for a different take on the goulash.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Total Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 35g
- Sugar: 6g
- WW SmartPoints: 9 (per serving)
Why You’ll Love This Goulash:
- Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it all comes together in one pot and cooks in under 30 minutes.
- Comforting: The savory sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to your taste, whether by changing the protein, adding extra veggies, or using a different kind of pasta.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this meal, making it a great choice for family dinners.
This Best Goulash is truly a crowd-pleaser, combining all the best flavors into a simple, satisfying dish. The richness of the tomato sauce, the tenderness of the beef, and the gooey melted cheese make it impossible not to go back for seconds. If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress, you’ve found your winner! 😋🍽️
