Description
Looking for a one-pot dinner that feeds a crowd and fills your kitchen with nostalgic comfort? This Classic Goulash Recipe is your go-to for weeknight ease, hearty flavor, and cozy satisfaction. Made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato base, it’s perfect for busy nights or laid-back weekends. Whether you’re after quick dinner ideas, a budget-friendly family meal, or a freezer-friendly comfort food, this dish checks every box. Serve it hot, creamy, and loaded with flavor for the kind of dinner that has everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
2. Add diced onion and bell peppers; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until pasta is tender and cooked through.
5. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese or fresh parsley.
Notes
To prevent over-soft pasta when reheating leftovers, consider slightly undercooking the macaroni if planning to store.
Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: classic goulash, one-pot meal, beef pasta, comfort food, easy dinner recipe