Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

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If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need delivers that and more. This hearty one-pot wonder wraps ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato sauce into a deeply satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s a family favorite not just for its taste but for how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Classic American goulash is all about cozy vibes. It brings back memories of Sunday suppers and grandma’s kitchen, with each bite steeped in savory nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking up on leftovers, this recipe checks all the boxes: budget-friendly, freezer-ready, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

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What Kind of Macaroni Should I Use?

For this goulash, elbow macaroni is king. Its curved shape captures the sauce perfectly, giving you that ideal sauce-to-pasta bite every time. You could swap it with rotini or penne in a pinch, but elbow keeps it traditional and time-tested.

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Ingredients for the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

• Ground Beef: The foundation of this dish. Choose 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet, savory depth that builds flavor right from the start.
• Garlic: Essential for aromatic richness—don’t skip this.
• Tomato Sauce: Gives that classic goulash richness. Use a good-quality canned variety for bold tomato flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• Elbow Macaroni: The pasta of choice—perfect for soaking up the meaty sauce.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the meatiness and helps cook the pasta evenly in the pot.
• Bay Leaves: Just one or two to add subtle earthy notes.
• Paprika & Italian Seasoning: Adds warmth, spice, and herby balance.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Adjust to taste, they bring everything to life.
• Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it pop visually and adds a bright note.

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How To Make the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown your ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Pour in the Tomatoes

Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add your seasonings: bay leaves, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir to make sure the pasta is evenly distributed. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning. Top with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot!

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Serving and Storing the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need

Serve your goulash straight from the pot while it’s still steamy. It’s perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge, and it freezes well for up to 3 months.

To reheat, just add a splash of water or broth and warm it over medium heat until hot. The flavors deepen over time, so it often tastes even better the next day!

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What to Serve With Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need?

Buttery Garlic Bread

That rich, meaty sauce deserves to be mopped up with warm, crispy garlic bread.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds some crisp balance.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Try these Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for a slightly sweet, herby side.

Southern Deviled Eggs

Southern Deviled Eggs make a creamy and nostalgic sidekick.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

These Parmesan Baked Potatoes offer crispy, cheesy comfort to round out your plate.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing, it helps mellow the bold goulash flavors.

Cornbread Muffins

Slightly sweet and perfect for scooping up bites of goulash.

Steamed Green Beans

A simple, wholesome veggie side that works with anything.

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Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you loved the Only Goulash You’ll Ever Need, you might also enjoy these hearty and satisfying dishes:

• Easy Shepherd’s Pie when you want savory meat and potato comfort.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for those chillier evenings.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy makes weeknights even easier.
• Cheeseburger Soup with all the flavor of your favorite burger in a spoonable form.
• Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes for a fast, fun twist on a classic.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you tossed in some bell peppers or topped it with cheese? Let me know how you made it your own—drop your tips in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite dish is waiting there.

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