Ground Beef Goulash

By Lily | Last modified on Jan 28, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Ground Beef Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that brings together seasoned beef, rich tomatoes, and tender pasta in a hearty sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it warms the soul with every cheesy, flavorful bite.

This dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner that’s both easy to prepare and deeply delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a nostalgic meal, this goulash delivers cozy satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot convenience minimizes cleanup and cooking time.
Rich, savory flavors with a perfect balance of tomato and spices.
Pasta and beef create a filling, satisfying meal ideal for any night.
Cheesy finish adds a creamy, comforting touch everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Ground beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef provides protein and a rich base full of hearty flavor for this comforting one-pot dish.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a smooth richness and helps brown the beef and onion evenly without sticking.
Small onion, diced: Offers aromatic sweetness and depth, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with warm, savory notes and enhances overall flavor complexity.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smoky flavor and mild warmth, complementing the beef beautifully.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb blend bringing a fresh, earthy element to the sauce.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all flavors, bringing balance and seasoning to the dish.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle spicy kick and depth to the overall taste.
Beef broth (2 cups): Creates a savory liquid base that tenderizes the pasta and enriches the sauce.
Tomato sauce (15 oz can): Provides a smooth, tangy tomato foundation full of vibrant color and flavor.
Diced tomatoes (14 oz can): Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato taste throughout the goulash.
Elbow macaroni (1½ cups): Classic small pasta that cooks in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors perfectly.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the hot goulash creating creamy, cheesy pockets that enhance every bite.
Parsley (optional garnish): Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich flavors and a splash of green color.

Instructions

Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef: Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to ensure even cooking. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Browning develops deep flavors and texture essential for the dish.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then sprinkle in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly distribute the spices. This step builds a well-rounded, savory base for the sauce.
Combine Liquids and Pasta, Then Simmer: Add beef broth, tomato sauce, canned diced tomatoes, and elbow macaroni to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil to activate starches in the pasta, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has soaked up the flavors.
Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Remove the lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the goulash. This adds an indulgent creamy texture and enhances the savory flavor profile for finishing touch.
Serve Warm and Garnish: Dish out the hot goulash directly from the pot. Garnish optionally with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness immediately for the best experience.

You Must Know

Use lean ground beef to reduce greasy residue and achieve a cleaner flavor.
Watch pasta closely to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy during simmering.
Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or chili flakes to customize spiciness and texture.
This recipe reheats well and is great for meal prep or leftovers.

Storage Tips

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy consistency and prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve ground beef goulash with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Crusty bread or garlic toast on the side also pairs wonderfully to soak up the rich tomato sauce.

Professional Tips

Browning the beef and onions well unlocks deeper flavors for a richer goulash.
Adding pasta directly to the simmering sauce lets it absorb maximum flavor without extra pots.
Fresh herbs such as parsley brighten the dish and add visual appeal just before serving.
Experiment with cheese types like mozzarella for a creamier texture or spicy pepper jack for heat.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?: Yes, small shaped pasta like rotini or shells work well, but adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?: Not as written due to traditional pasta; substitute with gluten-free pasta varieties for a gluten-free option.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?: Yes, brown beef and onions first, then combine all ingredients (except cheese) in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, adding cheese before serving.
How can I make it spicier?: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers with the garlic to give the dish a spicy kick.
What cheese alternatives can I use?: Mozzarella for creaminess, Monterey Jack for mild flavor, or a blend of cheeses to suit your preference can be excellent swaps.
Can I freeze ground beef goulash?: Yes, cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.