Name: Only Goulash You'll Ever Need: One-Pot Comfort Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any cooking oil); 1 medium Onion (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 pound Ground Beef (lean preferred); 2 cups Beef Broth (or vegetable broth); 1 cup Tomato Sauce (high-quality canned); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (high-quality canned); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or substitute herbs); 1 leaf Bay Leaf (remove before serving); 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (or other short pasta); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; optional Crushed Red Pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional)

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hearty one-pot meal simmering away, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with this American goulash. The moment I lifted the lid on my pot and was greeted by the beautiful medley of tender elbow macaroni, spiced ground beef, and rich tomato sauce, I knew I had discovered the only goulash I’d ever need.

This dish isn’t just a fleeting weeknight solution—it’s a cozy hug in a bowl that can easily cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving a kick of heat or looking to go green with veggies, this recipe allows for delightful customization while keeping the cooking fuss to a minimum. With just 40 minutes from stovetop to table, it’s the perfect answer for those busy evenings when you want something that satisfies without the hassle of multiple pans or ingredients. Grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this comforting classic that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Why is this Goulash the ultimate comfort food?

Comforting Aroma: The enticing smell of simmering ingredients creates an atmosphere of warmth and coziness that welcomes all.
One-Pot Wonder: This recipe simplifies your cooking experience, allowing you to relish goulash without the mess of multiple dishes.
Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 40 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Delight: Whether you want extra spice or packed with veggies, you have the freedom to create a dish that suits your taste perfectly.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Satisfy family and friends alike—everyone loves a hearty bowl of goulash! This could easily become your go-to dish; check out other comforting recipes for more ideas.

Goulash Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – Adds flavor and prevents sticking; you can substitute with any cooking oil you have on hand.
• Onion – Provides aromatics and depth of flavor; yellow or white onions work well, but shallots can offer a milder taste.
• Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; freshly minced is best, though garlic powder is a decent alternative in a pinch.
• Ground Beef – This is your main protein source; lean ground beef is preferable for a healthier option.

For the Sauce
• Beef Broth – Adds richness to your goulash; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes – These create the heart of your goulash; opt for high-quality canned varieties for the best flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces a savory depth; can be omitted for a vegetarian goulash.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances flavor; feel free to use oregano, basil, or thyme as substitutions.
• Bay Leaf – Contributes a subtle flavor; remember to remove it before serving.

For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta choice that absorbs sauce beautifully; you can swap in other short pastas like cavatappi or penne if needed.

For Seasoning
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for a more personalized touch.
• Crushed Red Pepper (optional) – Adds a kick of heat; you can increase or omit based on your spice preference.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; basil or cilantro can be used as lovely alternatives.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional) – Adds creaminess to your goulash; freshly grated cheese melts better, but feel free to skip for a lighter option.

This is truly the only goulash you’ll ever need, as it balances flavor, comfort, and ease!

How to Make American Goulash

Heat Oil: Warm a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, it’s ready to go—this should take about a minute.
Sauté Onion: Toss in your chopped onion and sauté until translucent, around 3–4 minutes. The aroma will start inviting your family to join you in the kitchen!
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic for just about 30 seconds, enough to release its fragrant essence—this step is crucial for flavor!
Brown Meat: Introduce the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to blend the flavors.
Simmer: Add the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes; this melds all the flavors beautifully.
Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover the pot, and cook for 10-12 minutes. Check for al dente pasta texture, giving it an occasional stir.
Final Touch: Remove the bay leaf and taste the goulash, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
Serve Hot: Dish out the goulash while it’s nice and hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an optional sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Optional: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a lovely creaminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with American Goulash?

There’s something inherently comforting about pairing your goulash with delightful sides that complete the meal experience.

Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, this warm bread brings a homely feel to your dining table. The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the hearty goulash with crisp textures and vibrant flavors, making each bite feel light and invigorating. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for color and crunch!
Homemade Coleslaw: The creamy texture of coleslaw complements the savory elements of goulash beautifully. It adds a delightful crunch with a touch of sweetness that contrasts well with the robust flavors.
Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots not only adds color to your plate but also infuses a slightly caramelized sweetness that enhances the overall dish—perfect for veggie lovers!
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These melt-in-your-mouth biscuits are a delightful addition, their buttery flavor pairing wonderfully with goulash. They’ll definitely have your family asking for seconds!
Sour Cream Topping: A dollop of sour cream on top of your goulash can add a creamy dimension and a zing of freshness that elevates the whole dish. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance flavor!
Sweet Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread contrasts with the savory goulash, adding a rustic touch to your meal. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of honey for an irresistible treat!

Make Ahead Options

These American Goulash make-ahead tips are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the goulash components, such as the flavorful sauce and cooked ground beef, up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook these items, allow them to cool, and refrigerate in airtight containers. You can also pre-measure the uncooked elbow macaroni and store it separately. When you’re ready to enjoy the goulash, combine the prepped sauce and cooked meat in your pot, add the broth and pasta, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente. This way, you’re just minutes away from a hearty bowl of comfort food that’s just as delicious!

Expert Tips for the Best Goulash

Undercook Pasta: Undercook the pasta slightly during preparation to avoid mushiness when reheating, ensuring you enjoy the best goulash texture.
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, incorporate diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn during the simmering step—it’s an easy way to customize your dish!
Use Pre-Cooked Pasta: If using pre-cooked pasta, add it at the end to warm through; adjust broth accordingly to maintain your goulash’s perfect consistency.
Stir Frequently: Ensure to stir frequently while cooking pasta in the sauce to prevent clumping; a gentle mix keeps flavors blending beautifully.
Choosing Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness and avoid overpowering flavors in your comforting goulash, making it heartier and more enjoyable.

Goulash Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore new twists and swaps to make this comforting goulash truly your own.

Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter and leaner dish without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Sausage: Add spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick that beautifully complements the rich tomato base.
Gluten-Free Twist: Replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta, making sure your broth and sauces are also gluten-free certified.
Veggie Boost: Fold in diced spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the simmering stage to enhance nutrition while adding vibrant colors.
Cheesy Goulash: Mix in some cream cheese or use a creamy cheese sauce for a rich and cheesy twist that livens up your goulash even more.
Chili Flare: Incorporate diced green chilies or jalapeños for a fiery push, perfect for those who enjoy a spicier fusion of flavors.
Herb Variation: Switch up the herbs by using fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a unique flavor dimension.
Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes for an unexpected layer of sweetness.

These variations provide lots of opportunities for creativity while delivering the same warmth and comfort this goulash is known for!

Storage Tips for Goulash

Fridge: Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors locked in and ready for a quick meal.

Freezer: Freeze goulash in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture and prevent dryness.

Make-Ahead: If you plan to enjoy goulash later, prepare it ahead of time and store for the ultimate meal prep convenience. This is truly the only goulash you’ll ever need!

Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need Recipe FAQs

How should I choose the ingredients for my goulash?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your goulash, select fresh ingredients. Look for firm onions without any dark spots, and fresh garlic that’s plump and fragrant. When choosing ground beef, aim for lean cuts to keep your dish less greasy. If you’re opting for pasta, make sure it’s within its best before date; you want it to cook up perfectly.

How can I store leftover goulash, and how long will it last?
Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain its deliciousness. If you want to keep it longer, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze goulash? If so, how do I do it?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your goulash! For the best results, allow it to cool to room temperature before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave a little room for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture.

What if my goulash turns out too thick?
Very common! If you find your goulash is thicker than you like, don’t worry. Simply add a little extra broth or water gradually while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. The key is to do this slowly so you can maintain control over how thick or thin you want it to be.

Are there any dietary adjustments I should consider for my goulash?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary preferences, you can easily make your goulash gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta. Make sure to use a gluten-free certified broth and Worcestershire sauce as well. For vegetarian options, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative—this will still keep your goulash hearty and satisfying.

Can I customize the spiciness of my goulash?
Of course! You have the freedom to tailor your goulash to your spice preferences. If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper or even diced jalapeños during cooking. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the spices or reduce them. Making adjustments while you cook is part of the joy—make it your own!

These Frequently Asked Questions will guide you every step of the way as you discover that this really is the only goulash you’ll ever need!