This comforting ground beef goulash is your ticket to weeknight dinner bliss. Loaded with hearty beef, tender elbow macaroni, and rich tomato flavor, it cooks in one pot for the ultimate no-fuss meal. Every spoonful is deeply satisfying and brimming with nostalgic charm.

Perfectly seasoned with pantry staples and finished with a touch of parsley, this goulash isn’t just easy to make—it’s an all-around family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving leftovers for lunch, this dish brings cozy comfort straight to your table.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pick for goulash and it’s easy to see why. It holds the sauce beautifully and cooks evenly right in the pot alongside the beef. If you don’t have macaroni, any small pasta like shells or rotini can stand in. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on your choice.

Ingredients for the Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Ground Beef: The heart of this dish. Choose lean beef for a less greasy result.
Elbow Macaroni: It soaks up the flavors perfectly and adds that classic goulash texture.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics lay the foundation of flavor.
Diced Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: Bring brightness and body to the sauce.
Beef Broth: Deepens the flavor and helps cook the pasta.
Italian Seasoning & Paprika: Offer a warm, balanced spice profile.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for rounding out the flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of green just before serving.

How To Make the Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onions to the pot and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir well and cover. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storing and Reheating This Cozy Classic

To store leftover goulash, allow it to cool fully and transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion it into zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Goulash?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up that rich tomato sauce.

Simple Green Salad

Add freshness and crunch with a lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Green Beans

A crisp and healthy side that balances the dish.

Cornbread

Adds a touch of sweetness and a hearty bite.

Steamed Broccoli

Great way to sneak in extra greens.

Cucumber Vinegar Salad

A cool, tangy contrast to the warmth of the goulash.

Baked Potatoes

For double comfort food mode, serve goulash over a fluffy baked potato.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this comforting goulash won your heart, you might love exploring these next:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a creamy spin on beefy pasta.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s perfect for quick weeknights.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for those who adore oven-baked goodness.
A Comforting and Flavorful Beef Bowtie Pasta with rich tomato notes.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving something extra indulgent.

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Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a cozy and satisfying dinner that comes together in one pot? This comforting ground beef goulash is your answer. Loaded with tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato flavor, and hearty ground beef, it’s a flavorful favorite for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a hearty family meal, or a nostalgic twist on a classic, this easy recipe checks every box. Great for leftovers, freezer-friendly, and endlessly comforting—it’s a go-to dinner idea that delivers every time.

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

2. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.

4. Add the uncooked macaroni, stir well, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally.

5. Once pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

Use lean ground beef (90/10) to prevent excess grease and keep the dish lighter.

For extra creaminess, stir in ½ cup shredded cheese at the end before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 410
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: easy recipe, goulash, dinner ideas, quick dinner, one-pot meal, ground beef, comfort food