Easy Goulash Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together without fuss, this Easy Goulash Recipe is the one to try. It’s everything I love about classic goulash — hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor — but with a simple, straightforward method that makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe works beautifully. I remember making it after a long day, and it not only warmed me up but also filled the house with that irresistible tomato and garlic aroma that everyone loves. This Easy Goulash Recipe is definitely worth keeping in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The combination here is classic and reliable, pairing savory beef with tomatoes, spices, and comforting pasta. Each ingredient plays a key role in building those rich layers of flavor, so you’ll want to pick quality basics for the best result.

• Olive oil: Helps brown the meat and soften veggies without sticking.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth — I like yellow for its natural sugars.
• Green bell pepper: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh flavor contrast.
• Ground beef (lean): Provides hearty protein without too much grease.
• Garlic: Minced fresh is best for that punch of savory warmth.
• Tomato sauce: The base for that rich, tangy flavor we all crave.
• Petite diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of juiciness.
• Beef broth: Boosts the meaty depth—homemade or store-bought both work.
• Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that amps up umami beautifully.
• Seasoned salt: Simplifies seasoning by adding herbs and salt in one go.
• Italian seasoning: Blends basil, oregano, and more for that Italian twist.
• Bay leaves: Subtle aromatic leaf adding complexity during simmering.
• Macaroni noodles (uncooked): Classic pasta that soaks up all those flavors perfectly.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts in at the end for creamy richness.

Variations

I love how flexible this Easy Goulash Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tweaked it depending on what I have on hand or the vibe I want. You can easily make it your own, and I encourage you to experiment!

• Vegetarian option: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a meaty texture without the meat. I tried this once for a friend and it was surprisingly satisfying.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to bring some heat and smoky complexity.
• Swap the pasta: Use elbow macaroni, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
• Cheese variations: Try mozzarella for gooey stretchiness or Parmesan for a sharper bite.
• Add veggies: Toss in chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms to bulk it up and boost nutrition.

How to Make Easy Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the beef with veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add diced onions, green bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook everything together until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step builds the foundation of your flavor, so don’t rush. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.

Step 2: Add garlic and simmer the sauce

Throw in the minced garlic and stir quickly until fragrant — it should only take about 30 seconds. Then pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Stir everything together well, and add your uncooked macaroni noodles right into the pot. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then lower to maintain a gentle boil. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender — about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the liquid; if it reduces too much, add a little more broth or water.

Step 3: Finish with cheese

Once the noodles are soft and everything is bubbling with flavor, remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese right before serving so it melts perfectly into the goulash, making the dish creamy and comforting. This step is my favorite because it gives that final indulgent touch.

How to Serve Easy Goulash Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top my goulash with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped green onions for a pop of color and a bit of fresh bite. A dollop of sour cream also works wonders if you want a creamy tang that balances the tomato acidity.

Side Dishes

While this Easy Goulash Recipe is fantastic on its own, I love pairing it with a crisp side salad or some crusty garlic bread. The bread helps scoop up every last bit, and the salad adds a refreshing crunch to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners or potlucks, I sometimes serve this goulash in mini casserole dishes topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. It’s a fun twist that makes the meal feel special without extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. This goulash actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld. Just make sure to cool it fully before refrigerating to keep it fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option here! I portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When frozen, it keeps well for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave off the cheese topping before freezing, and add it fresh when reheating.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. This prevents the noodles from sticking or getting mushy. Then I sprinkle more shredded cheddar right before serving for that fresh melty finish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Easy Goulash Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort meals, and I’m excited for you to add it to your lineup. It’s straightforward to make, budget-friendly, and there’s something so satisfying about that cheesy, hearty bowl. I promise that once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again — just like me!

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