Dinner

Easy Goulash Recipe

Bymia larkspur January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

Introduction

This easy goulash recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

A close-up view of a large red pot with a white inside filled with a thick, rich mixture of elbow macaroni pasta, ground meat, and chunky tomato sauce. The pasta is light yellow, while the sauce is a deep reddish-brown with visible pieces of tomato and green bell pepper, creating a textured look. Sprigs of fresh green parsley are scattered on top, adding a touch of brightness. A wooden spoon with sauce residue rests inside the pot, its handle extending outwards. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with some macaroni scattered around its base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion (diced)
1 green bell pepper (diced)
2 lbs. ground beef (lean)
3 tsp garlic (minced)
2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
2 15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
3 cups beef broth
3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 tsp seasoned salt
2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
3 bay leaves
2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked)
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess fat and return the pot to the stove.
Step 2: Add minced garlic to the pot and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and uncooked macaroni noodles. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Reduce heat to a light boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Remove bay leaves, stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving, and enjoy your hearty goulash.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of red wine when adding the tomato sauce.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
If you prefer a spicier goulash, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Try switching macaroni noodles with elbow pasta or small shells for a different texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if the mixture is too thick.