Ground Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni

Introduction

Ground Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni is a classic comfort food that combines hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. This one-pot dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you need a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that everyone will love. The dish has a warm, homey appeal—full of savory flavors with a hint of sweetness and the subtle kick of paprika.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to make a dish that tastes like it’s been simmered all day. The combination of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and tomato sauce melds beautifully with tender pasta, creating a cozy, filling dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Ground Beef Goulash recipe because it’s comfort food at its finest. Every bite is hearty and flavorful, combining tender beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it approachable for even beginner cooks, yet the end result tastes like a home-cooked masterpiece.

It’s versatile, kid-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. I also love how easily you can customize it—add vegetables for extra nutrition, spice it up with paprika or cayenne, or top it with cheese for a richer flavor. It’s a recipe that brings warmth, satisfaction, and nostalgia to the table, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

1. Ultimate Comfort Food:
This dish combines tender ground beef, hearty elbow macaroni, and a rich, savory tomato-based sauce. Every bite is warm, filling, and reminiscent of classic home-cooked meals—perfect for a cozy family dinner.

2. Easy and Budget-Friendly:
With simple pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, it’s an affordable yet satisfying meal. It’s also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

3. Hearty and Filling:
The combination of pasta and ground beef creates a dish that’s both satisfying and balanced. It keeps everyone full and happy, making it perfect for families or meal prep.

4. Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly:
The flavors are mild yet savory, appealing to kids and adults alike. The creamy, tomato-based sauce clings to the pasta, making it a favorite for picky eaters.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables:
   Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the beef. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Sauce Ingredients:
   Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook Pasta:
   Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the sauce. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
   Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet.
2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic with the beef.
3. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
4. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni and cook until tender.
6. Optional: stir in cheese until melted.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve this goulash hot as a main course. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be reheated easily and taste just as good the next day.

Recipe Tips

• Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
• Use a large enough pot so pasta has room to cook evenly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste; add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
• For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables in a bit of butter before adding the beef.

Variations

• Vegetable Goulash: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper or cayenne for a kick.
• Cheesy Version: Top with more cheese or use a cheese blend for extra richness.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: slow cooker for hands-off cooking

Conclusion

Ground Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni is a hearty, comforting, and versatile meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and universally loved. Its simplicity, flavor, and flexibility make it a must-try recipe that you’ll return to time and time again.