I have such fond memories of making this classic Ground Beef Goulash recipe. It’s easy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it my go-to option on busy evenings. The rich, savory sauce mixed with perfectly tender pasta is a surefire hit every time.

One bite, and it takes me straight back to cozy family dinners. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this American Goulash is so beloved.

Old Fashioned Ground Beef Goulash American Goulash Recipe

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table?

This dish is a total crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. Take a look at all the ways it can make your life easier and tastier!

Quick and Easy to Make

Who doesn’t love a recipe that comes together with minimal fuss? The steps are simple, and the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have. Plus, it’s all done in just under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.

Amazingly Versatile

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, vegetarians, or those with specific dietary needs, this recipe can adapt. You can swap ingredients to suit personal preferences without losing its comforting flavor.

Full of Big, Bold Flavors

This recipe combines simmered tomatoes, juicy ground beef, and fragrant spices like paprika, oregano, and basil. The result is a dish that’s savory, mildly tangy, and utterly satisfying.

Budget-Friendly Meal

Cooking on a budget? This dish is not only delicious but also wallet-friendly. With such affordable ingredients, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without breaking the bank.

Great for Leftovers

The leftovers taste just as good, if not better! This dish reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep.

Cooking Time

Here’s how quickly you can whip up this hearty meal:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this goulash to life:

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Tomato sauce
Diced tomatoes
Elbow macaroni
Beef broth
Paprika
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Salt and pepper
Vegetable oil
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ways to Make It Your Own

If you’re looking to customize your goulash, here are a few ideas to get started.

Ingredient Swaps

For a dairy-free version: Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth.
To make it healthier: Use whole-grain pasta instead of regular macaroni.
To add a kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large skillet or Dutch oven: For cooking your meat and sauce.
Saucepan: For boiling the macaroni.
Wooden spoon: To stir and combine ingredients.
Strainer: To drain the cooked pasta.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Classic Ground Beef Goulash

Follow these simple steps to create a warm, comforting meal packed with rich flavors!

Step 1: Sauté the Meat 🍖

Start by heating a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet. Add ground beef and cook it on medium-high heat until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks and drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics 🧅

Throw in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Savory Sauce 🍅

Add in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Lower the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors blend beautifully.

Step 4: Prep the Pasta 🍝

While your sauce simmers, boil a pot of salted water. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 5: Bring It All Together ❤️

Add the cooked pasta directly into your skillet with the sauce. Stir until the macaroni is completely coated. Taste-test and adjust your seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Time to Serve and Enjoy 🌿

Ladle the goulash into bowls or plates, and for an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color!

Helpful Tips to Elevate Your Goulash Game

Cooking ground beef: Make sure the beef is fully browned before adding the other ingredients for more depth of flavor.
Pasta prep: Always cook your pasta al dente since it’ll absorb some sauce once mixed.
Simmering sauce: Don’t skip the simmering step. It’s crucial for melding the flavors together.
Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top for extra indulgence.

Serving Up Your Delicious Creation

This dish is perfect served on its own, but if you’re looking for a full meal experience, here are some great accompaniments:

Side Salad: A crisp, green salad balances the rich goulash perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is irresistible for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Pickles or Coleslaw: The tangy crunch works so well alongside the hearty pasta.

Nutritional Information

For a single serving, here’s what you can expect (approximate values):

Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 12g

Save It for Later or Make It Ahead

This goulash isn’t just easy to make; it’s also a star when it comes to storage!

Refrigeration

If you’ve got leftovers, pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezing

You can also freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Divide it into portions and store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Meal Prep Bonus

Since this dish stores well, you can cook a big batch and enjoy it over the week. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!

You can watch this video to follow the recipe instructions.