Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

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There’s something about a pot of goulash simmering on the stove that feels like home. This classic comfort dish brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce in the coziest way possible. Whether it’s a chilly night or a busy weekday, goulash is the kind of meal that satisfies every craving with minimal fuss.

What makes this version the only one you’ll ever need is how incredibly balanced it is. The richness of beef is brightened with herbs and a touch of acidity, the pasta cooks right in the sauce to soak up every bit of flavor, and the result is one hearty, soul-warming bowl. Best of all, it comes together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Goulash

This goulash is a weeknight savior, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even better. It hits all the right notes: meaty, saucy, comforting, and easy. And unlike many traditional recipes, this version doesn’t require hours to cook—you can have it on the table in under an hour.

What Type of Pasta Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, and for good reason. It holds sauce beautifully and keeps the texture nice and firm throughout cooking. However, if you’re in a pinch, small shells or rotini will also work well. Just make sure to use a pasta shape that doesn’t overcook quickly, since it’ll be cooking in the tomato-rich broth.

Ingredients for the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make great goulash—just simple pantry staples and a few fresh components. Here’s what brings the dish together:

Ground beef
Essential for that deep, meaty base flavor. Choose 80/20 for the perfect fat balance.

Yellow onion
Adds sweetness and depth, softening perfectly into the sauce.

Garlic
Aromatic and bold, it elevates the beef and tomato combination.

Tomato sauce
The backbone of the saucy element, providing rich tomato flavor.

Diced tomatoes
For texture and a little tang, these keep the sauce from feeling too flat.

Beef broth
Infuses the whole dish with hearty depth and helps cook the pasta.

Elbow macaroni
Soaks up all the deliciousness while keeping the dish filling and satisfying.

Bay leaf
Adds subtle background warmth to the flavor profile.

Paprika
Gives a gentle smokiness that sets this dish apart.

Salt & pepper
Simple seasoning, but essential for balancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onion

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until mostly cooked through. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Pour in the beef broth, toss in the bay leaf, and season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a low boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni, lower the heat to medium, and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve

Remove the bay leaf and let the goulash sit for 5 minutes off heat before serving to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy every cozy bite.

How to Serve and Store Your Goulash

This goulash makes generous portions—expect to feed about 6 to 8 people with one pot. It’s ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weekday meal prep. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh herbs for an added touch.

Storing is a breeze. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, just microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Goulash?

A Simple Green Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the hearty goulash.

Garlic Bread

Golden, buttery slices of garlic bread are ideal for scooping up every last bite.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a nutrient-packed side.

Cucumber Salad

A cool cucumber salad with vinegar and dill cuts through the richness.

Crusty Artisan Bread

You can never go wrong with a rustic loaf to serve alongside the stew.

Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans bring balance and color to the plate.

Pickled Beets or Onions

Their acidity offers a punchy counterpoint that pairs beautifully.

Applesauce

Unexpected but traditional in some regions, applesauce brings a touch of sweetness.

Want More Comforting Dinner Ideas?

If this goulash became your go-to, you’ll want to try these cozy recipes next:

• Easy Chicken Fried Rice for a fast, flavorful skillet meal.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup that’s hearty, creamy, and dreamy.
• Dirty Rice with Ground Beef for a bold, Cajun-inspired twist.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice if you’re craving a Southern-style dinner.
• Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes for a make-ahead, no-stress side.

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📌 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 yours turned out. Did you add bell peppers or go extra spicy? Did grandma approve? I’d love to hear your tweaks and variations.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dish.

Conclusion

Whether you’re serving a family of five or just want comfort in a bowl, this is truly the only goulash you’ll ever need. It’s simple, flavorful, and soul-hugging in every spoonful. Give it a try and see why it earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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