Best Goulash Recipe
A warm, comforting one-pot meal made with savory beef, tender pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce—easy enough for a weeknight, delicious enough to serve guests!
📝 Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for authentic flavor)
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 cup elbow macaroni
Sour cream, for serving
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain any excess fat if needed.
2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Sauce
Stir in:
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Beef broth
Paprika and caraway seeds (if using)
Season with salt and pepper
Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and let simmer 20 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Add elbow macaroni directly into the pot.
Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and has absorbed flavor.
5️⃣ Serve
Ladle into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or shredded cheese.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
Want it extra hearty? Stir in a handful of cooked beans or diced carrots.
Cooking Time: ~35 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Difficulty: Easy | Perfect for: Family dinners, cozy nights in