Classic Goulash Recipe

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Hearty, nostalgic, and incredibly comforting, Classic Goulash is a one-pot wonder that has stood the test of time. Loaded with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is the epitome of American comfort food. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug, with every spoonful bringing back cozy memories of family dinners.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, feeding a crowd, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this Classic Goulash is your answer. It comes together quickly, requires basic pantry staples, and delivers a flavor that feels like it simmered all day. It’s no wonder this dish is a staple in homes across generations.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Goulash Recipe

• One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved: The savory beef and pasta combo is always a hit.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Meal Prep Perfect: Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable: Easy to add veggies or spice it up to your taste.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (and Why They Matter)

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools on hand will make preparing this Classic Goulash much smoother and faster.

• Large Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet with Lid: This is your main cooking vessel. A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution and enough space to brown the meat and simmer the pasta all in one pot.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for breaking up ground beef without scratching your cookware.
• Colander: For draining pasta if you choose to cook it separately.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep all the seasoning proportions consistent.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers evenly.
• Ladle or Serving Spoon: Makes serving hot portions quick and mess-free.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Lean Ground Beef: This reduces excess grease and gives a cleaner, beefier flavor. If you’re using fattier ground beef, make sure to drain the excess fat after browning.
• Dice Veggies Uniformly: This ensures even cooking and balanced texture throughout the dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: If cooking separately, undercook the pasta slightly since it will continue to cook once mixed with the sauce.
• Simmer Low and Slow: Letting the goulash simmer for at least 15–20 minutes enhances the flavors and allows the sauce to thicken perfectly.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, pepper, or spices during cooking to match your preference.

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Ingredients for This Classic Goulash Recipe

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying pot of Classic Goulash:

• 1 lb ground beef – lean or 85/15 for a balance of flavor and fat
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – for a savory aromatic base
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds depth and richness
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – for color and subtle sweetness
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – provides texture and tang
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – creates the thick, hearty body of the dish
• 2 cups beef broth – adds richness and helps cook the pasta
• 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked – the classic pasta shape for goulash
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – brings out the umami flavor
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – for a balanced herb flavor
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – adds warmth and depth
• Salt and black pepper to taste – for perfect seasoning
• Optional: shredded cheddar cheese or fresh parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onions and green bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.

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Step 4: Add the Broth and Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Once the pasta is cooked and the goulash has reached a nice, thick consistency, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you like it cheesy, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top and let it melt before serving.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle hot goulash into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or more cheese, if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy.

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Notes

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier twist.
• Cheesy Option: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy version.
• Vegetable Boost: You can sneak in extra veggies like corn, peas, or zucchini without changing the flavor profile too much.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: The pasta continues to cook in the hot sauce, so be sure to simmer just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
• Not Draining Fat Properly: If using higher-fat beef, failing to drain the excess fat can leave the dish greasy.
• Undercooking the Aromatics: Make sure the onions and peppers are soft before adding liquids — this builds better flavor and texture.
• Adding All the Salt at Once: Ingredients like broth and Worcestershire already contain salt. Taste as you go and adjust at the end.
• Skipping the Simmer: Letting everything simmer covered is essential for marrying the flavors and properly cooking the pasta.
• Using Too Much Pasta: Stick to the recipe amount. Too much pasta can soak up all the liquid, leaving the goulash dry.

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What to Serve With Classic Goulash?

Classic Goulash is a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience. Whether you’re going for comfort or contrast, here are some ideas to round out your plate.

8 Recommendations

1. Crusty Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to balance the hearty main.
3. Steamed Green Beans – Light and quick, adds a crisp veggie element.
4. Coleslaw – Brings a creamy, tangy crunch that complements the warm pasta.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a bit of caramelized bitterness for depth.
6. Mashed Potatoes – For the ultimate comfort food overload.
7. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables – A zesty bite cuts through the richness.
8. Cornbread Muffins – Slightly sweet and tender, great for pairing with savory bites.

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Storage Instructions

Classic Goulash stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Let the goulash cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use rotini, shells, or penne. Just ensure the pasta-to-liquid ratio stays balanced and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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2. Is Classic Goulash spicy?

Not by default. The recipe has a rich, savory flavor with mild seasonings. You can always add heat using red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.

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3. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and broth are certified gluten-free.

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4. What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef is the classic choice, but ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used with great results.

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5. Can I add cheese directly into the dish?

Yes! Stir in 1–2 cups of shredded cheddar or mozzarella right before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.

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6. Why is my goulash too thick?

The pasta may have absorbed more liquid than expected. Just add a bit of warm broth or water while reheating to loosen the consistency.

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7. Can I cook the pasta separately?

You can, but cooking it in the sauce helps it absorb flavor. If you do cook separately, reduce the broth amount slightly.

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8. Is this the same as Hungarian Goulash?

No, this is an American-style goulash, which uses ground beef and pasta. Hungarian goulash is a stew with chunks of beef and paprika-based broth, usually served without pasta.

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Conclusion

Classic Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, endlessly satisfying, and packed with nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or just want something hearty and soul-warming, this dish hits all the right notes. With basic ingredients, minimal effort, and crowd-pleasing results, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation.

Stay tuned for the printable version in Part 9—you’ll want to save this one!

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