Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni Recipe

If you are craving a comforting meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, then you are in for a treat with this Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni. This dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce infused with herbs and spices. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, effortlessly coming together with simple ingredients yet delivering a complex, satisfying flavor profile that your whole family will adore.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a big punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, from the savory ground beef giving depth, to the juicy tomatoes creating a luscious sauce, and the elbow macaroni adding that perfect bite.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty base.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds juicy texture and vibrant acidity.
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth: Enriches the sauce with a savory, meaty essence.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Offers herbaceous freshness with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds earthiness and Mediterranean flair.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Delivers subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For just a touch of heat to awaken your taste buds.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice, perfectly shaped to catch sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into the dish for creamy indulgence.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish and lovely color contrast.

How to Make Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned and deliciously caramelized, which lays down the meaty foundation for this dish. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the goulash from getting greasy. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute until it fills the kitchen with its irresistible fragrance.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste, which will thicken the sauce and deepen its tomato flavor. Pour in the beef broth to create a luscious, savory liquid base. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes if you want a gentle kick. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, giving the sauce a chance to marry the flavors while thickening slightly — this step is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers away, it’s time to cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions and cook until it’s tender but still firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be combined with the rich sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

After about 10 minutes of simmering, the sauce should be thickened and bursting with aromatic flavors. Add the cooked macaroni directly into the pot and stir thoroughly to coat every little piece of pasta in that savory sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully and the pasta to soak up the sauce’s richness.

Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you love a creamy, cheesy twist, now’s the time to stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts luxuriously into the mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle the cheese on top right before serving for a gooey, golden finish. This little addition takes the Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni to the next level of comfort food bliss.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

To bring a touch of freshness and color, garnish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving. Serve this dish hot, and get ready for a bowlful of pure comfort wrapped in rich, hearty goodness.

How to Serve Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders to bring brightness to this dish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a little shredded cheddar on top can add that creamy contrast everyone loves.

Side Dishes

This goulash is pretty satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans can add a fresh, crisp balance. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the goulash in bread bowls or stuffed bell peppers. You can even turn it into a casserole by layering it with extra cheese and baking until bubbly for a crowd-pleasing meal. These ideas make this classic dish feel fresh and exciting every time you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer the Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it an ideal meal to enjoy later without any compromise in flavor.

Freezing

This goulash freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out any cheese if you plan to freeze it, as that tends to change texture when thawed and reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the sauce to its original luscious consistency. Stir frequently until hot all the way through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this goulash?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for catching the sauce, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep the texture just right.

Is ground turkey or chicken a good substitute for ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can work if you prefer a leaner option. The flavor will be milder, so consider boosting the seasonings slightly to keep the dish flavorful and hearty.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The tomatoes and spices will still create a rich and satisfying sauce.

How spicy is this goulash? Can I adjust the heat?

The recipe includes just a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle warmth, but you can easily omit these for a milder version or add more if you like your meals with a kick. It’s very flexible!

What’s the best way to get cheesy goodness without using cheddar?

If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella for gooey stretchiness, or Parmesan for a nutty finish. Even a dollop of ricotta can add creamy indulgence while keeping the flavors balanced.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Hearty and Flavorful Goulash with Ground Beef and Macaroni that just feels like home. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for any night you want a satisfying, no-fuss dinner. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find a new go-to that turns everyday evenings into memorable meals.