Name: Easy Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion (peeled and diced); 1 green bell pepper (seeded and diced); 2 pounds lean ground beef; 3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce; 2 (15 ounce) cans of petite diced tomatoes; 3 cups beef broth; 3 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce; 2 teaspoons seasoned salt; 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning; 3 bay leaves; 2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked); 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 185 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together quickly and bursts with classic flavors, this Easy Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a one-pot wonder, combining tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and tender pasta all smothered in cheesy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Goulash Recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, adding texture, or enhancing the vibrant color that makes this dish so inviting on the table.

1 Tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sauté your veggies and brown the beef evenly, adding a subtle richness.
1 large onion (peeled and diced): Infuses sweetness and depth to the base of the goulash.
1 green bell pepper (seeded and diced): Adds a crisp, fresh bite and a pop of green color.
2 pounds lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced): Introduces an aromatic punch that elevates the entire pot.
2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce: Creates the rich, velvety tomato base that ties everything together.
2 (15 ounce) cans of petite diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of tanginess throughout.
3 cups beef broth: Gives the goulash a savory depth and keeps it perfectly saucy.
3 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: Brings a subtle umami boost that balances the acidity of tomatoes.
2 teaspoons seasoned salt: Provides layered seasoning beyond simple salt and pepper.
2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning: Offers a fragrant medley of herbs to brighten the dish.
3 bay leaves: Infuse gentle aromatic notes that deepen the flavor complexity.
2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked): Tender pasta that soaks up all the savory sauce and flavors.
2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts perfectly at the end, adding creamy, gooey richness.

How to Make Easy Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook everything together, stirring often, until the beef is fully browned and the veggies are softened. This step builds a flavorful base with caramelized bits and delicious aromas. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep it from getting greasy. Add the minced garlic last and cook just 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning it.

Step 2: Add the Sauces, Broth, and Spices

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring to combine. Next, drizzle in the Worcestershire sauce to amp up the umami. Sprinkle the seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and toss in the bay leaves for those subtle herbaceous notes. Lastly, add the uncooked macaroni noodles right into the pot. Mix everything well and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. This ensures the noodles start cooking in the savory sauce, soaking up tons of flavor.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the pot simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly cook the noodles. About 20 minutes later, you’ll notice the pasta has softened beautifully and the sauce has thickened into that perfect, hearty consistency that makes this recipe special. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings if needed at this stage.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

After removing the bay leaves, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese while the goulash is still warm. The cheese will melt into creamy streams, enriching every bite with velvety texture and a sharp tang. That final touch takes this Easy Goulash Recipe from simple to soul-satisfying comfort food ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Easy Goulash Recipe

Garnishes

Some freshly chopped parsley or green onions sprinkled on top add a lovely fresh touch and brighten the rich flavors. If you like a little kick, a dollop of sour cream or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can complement the warmth of the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since this recipe is a hearty meal on its own, light sides such as a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans provide a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up every last bit of that cheesy tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try serving this Easy Goulash Recipe in individual casserole dishes topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden on top. You can also spoon the goulash over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a cozy, indulgent variation that’ll wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Goulash Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for busy nights, freeze the cooled goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the cheese when freezing and add it fresh when reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to prevent the noodles from drying out. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick to revive that perfect saucy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, penne, rotini, or small shells all work well and give you a nice variety of textures. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta cooks through.

Is this recipe spicy?

The classic Easy Goulash Recipe is mild and cozy, but you can easily add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños if you like things with a little more kick.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, lean ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Just be mindful that turkey and chicken may cook a bit faster, so watch your cooking times to avoid drying out the meat.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap out the macaroni noodles for a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Most gluten-free pastas will cook similarly, so just keep an eye on the texture as it simmers within the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to sneak in extra veggies. Just add them when you’re browning the beef so they get time to soften and mingle with the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Goulash Recipe is truly one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort and joy to the table with minimal fuss. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness just like I do. It’s a go-to for busy nights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.