Easy Comforting Ground Beef Goulash for Busy Nights

If you’re craving a warm, filling dinner that comes together fast, this Comforting Ground Beef Goulash is exactly what you need. Made in one pot with elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a cozy classic that fits perfectly into busy weeknights, meal prep plans, and family dinners.

This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples you probably already have. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially on chilly evenings or when you just want something familiar and satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Comforting Ground Beef Goulash

• One-pot recipe means less cleanup
• Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights
• Kid-approved flavors with simple ingredients
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Easily customizable with extra veggies or protein swaps

This goulash delivers big comfort without complicated steps, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Comforting Ground Beef Goulash (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

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Tips & Variations

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option.
• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn blend in beautifully.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a little shredded cheese at the end if desired.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free elbow pasta and monitor cooking time.
• Thicker sauce: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken naturally.

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Serving Ideas & Storage

Serve this goulash with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great on the side for soaking up the sauce.

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth if needed

This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for make-ahead dinners.

Print

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~420
Protein	~25g
Carbohydrates	~38g
Fat	~18g
Fiber	~4g
Sodium	~720mg

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Final Thoughts

This Comforting Ground Beef Goulash is proof that simple ingredients can create truly satisfying meals. It’s warm, hearty, and dependable, exactly what you want when dinner needs to be easy and comforting. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking your fridge with leftovers, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.