Classic Goulash Recipe

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There’s something deeply nostalgic about a warm bowl of classic goulash. With its hearty mix of tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato base, this dish brings comfort in the coziest, most delicious way. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with rich, mouthwatering aromas and gathers everyone around the dinner table without fail.

This American-style goulash is not only a budget-friendly staple but also a versatile weeknight wonder. It stretches well for large families and reheats beautifully for lunches throughout the week. Plus, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit what you have on hand, making it as flexible as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Goulash Recipe

Classic goulash is a one-pot miracle that takes the stress out of cooking. It’s ready in under an hour and delivers all the home-cooked flavors you crave with minimal cleanup. The combination of beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce strikes the perfect balance between cozy and practical. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or prepping for meal plans, this dish checks every box.

The ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet the flavor payoff is enormous. You’ll appreciate how this humble dish transforms into something magical with just a little simmering time and some love. It’s also a great way to sneak in extra veggies or use up odds and ends from the fridge.

What Type of Ground Beef Works Best for Goulash?

While you can use any type of ground beef in goulash, opting for lean ground beef (like 85/15 or 90/10) is ideal. It offers a good balance of flavor and less grease, so you don’t have to drain off too much fat after browning. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can mix in a bit of ground pork or even use ground turkey for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that beef is what gives this dish its classic depth and savory comfort.

Ingredients for the Classic Goulash Recipe

What makes classic goulash so great is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your kitchen. This recipe relies on basic, wholesome pantry staples that combine into something unexpectedly flavorful and comforting.

• Ground beef – The heart of the dish, it brings rich flavor and protein. Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
• Elbow macaroni – This pasta is a goulash classic. It holds the sauce well and keeps the texture playful and familiar.
• Yellow onion – Adds aromatic depth and sweetness as it sautés into the beef.
• Garlic – Enhances the savory flavor with its punchy aroma and bold taste.
• Tomato sauce – The base that ties it all together into a rich, thick coating.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds texture and acidity, giving the sauce a bit of body and brightness.
• Beef broth – Deepens the flavor and helps the pasta cook with extra richness.
• Worcestershire sauce – A flavor booster that adds a subtle umami complexity.
• Italian seasoning – Brings a blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance the whole dish.

How To Make the Classic Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once it’s halfway cooked, stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add the Sauces and Spices

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Simmer

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni straight into the pot. Stir to combine, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will cook directly in the sauce, soaking up all that goodness.

Step 4: Taste and Finish

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, give it a taste. Adjust seasoning if needed. If you like a little extra richness, stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese right at the end.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls while it’s piping hot. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad and enjoy the cozy comfort of homemade goulash.

How to Serve and Store Classic Goulash

Classic goulash is best served warm and straight from the pot, where all the flavors are perfectly melded and the pasta is still tender. This recipe feeds about 6 to 8 people comfortably, making it ideal for a family dinner, potluck, or a cozy night with leftovers in mind. Ladle it into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of grated cheese if you like a little flair.

For storing, allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Just know the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.

What to Serve With Classic Goulash?

Crusty Bread

Thick slices of crusty sourdough or a buttery baguette are perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.

Garlic Bread

For something a little more indulgent, warm garlic bread adds a crispy, buttery edge that pairs wonderfully with the hearty stew.

Green Salad

A simple salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the goulash and brings a refreshing crunch.

Steamed Green Beans

Add a pop of color and nutrition with lightly steamed or sautéed green beans. A squeeze of lemon brightens the plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and earthy flavor contrast beautifully with the savory tomato-based dish.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp cucumbers tossed in vinegar and dill make a tangy and refreshing side.

Pickled Vegetables

Add a briny bite to cut through the richness. Pickled beets, onions, or even classic pickles do the trick.

Applesauce

If you’re going for an old-school feel, applesauce brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to the table.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this classic goulash, here are more hearty dishes you can try next:

• Try the creamy and rich Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe for a pasta dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying.
• For a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal, the Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is a family favorite.
• Craving bold and smoky flavors? The BBQ Chicken Pizza is an easy way to shake up your weeknight dinners.
• If you want a stovetop classic, the Dirty Rice with Ground Beef brings that down-home Southern flavor.
• And for a creamy twist on comfort food, don’t miss the Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your goulash turned out. Did you go with cheddar on top or keep it classic? Add some heat with chili flakes?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist to this recipe. If you have any questions or tweaks, drop them below so we can help each other create delicious meals.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and comfort food favorites on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next go-to meal.

Conclusion

Classic goulash is a dish that brings generations together with one pot of nostalgic, flavorful comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight crowd or just craving something simple and hearty, this recipe delivers every single time. Make it once and it’ll become a permanent part of your meal rotation.

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