One-Pot Beef Goulash – Hearty, Comforting & So Easy

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Only one pot – minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
• Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
• Packed with protein, vegetables, and pasta for a complete meal
• Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have
• Kid-approved and always a crowd-pleaser

Tools You'll Need

• Large Dutch oven or deep skillet (5-6 quart)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons paprika (preferably sweet or smoked)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté vegetables: Add onion and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Add tomato paste and spices: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Add liquids and pasta: Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then add elbow macaroni.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
6. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired, cover for 2 minutes until melted, or serve as is. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips

• Use good paprika: Paprika is the signature flavor of goulash. Sweet Hungarian paprika or smoked paprika adds wonderful depth.
• Don't overcook the pasta: The pasta will continue to soften as it sits. Cook just until al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust consistency: If your goulash gets too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Make it cheesy: Stirring in a handful of shredded cheddar at the end makes it extra creamy and indulgent.
• Double the batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for later.

Recipe Variations

• Italian Goulash: Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and add a teaspoon of fennel seeds.
• Spicy Goulash: Use hot Italian sausage, double the red pepper flakes, and add a diced jalapeño.
• Vegetarian Goulash: Omit the beef and use crumbled tempeh or extra mushrooms; use vegetable broth.
• Mushroom Goulash: Add 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms with the peppers.
• Low-Carb: Substitute elbow macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, adding at the end.
• Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef and vegetables on stovetop, then transfer to slow cooker with remaining ingredients except pasta. Cook on low 4-5 hours, add pasta 30 minutes before serving.
• Beer Goulash: Replace 1 cup of beef broth with a dark beer for extra richness.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or penne work great. Adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or in the microwave.

Can I freeze beef goulash?
Yes! This goulash freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta (like brown rice or chickpea pasta) and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

What can I serve with beef goulash?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad are perfect. A sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top is always welcome.

How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Corn, carrots, or mushrooms would be delicious. Add them with the peppers.

This One-Pot Beef Goulash is the ultimate comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and so easy to make. With its rich tomato sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a meal that brings back childhood memories and creates new ones around the dinner table. The best part? Everything cooks in a single pot, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a bowl of pure nostalgia, this goulash delivers. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese and a side of crusty bread for the perfect cozy dinner. Make a double batch – it freezes beautifully, so you'll always have a delicious meal ready when you need it.

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