There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of goulash to bring comfort to the table. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar, hearty, and deeply satisfying—the type of dinner that reminds you of home, no matter where you are. This Easy Goulash Recipe delivers everything you love about a classic comfort dish, made simple enough for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to become a family favorite.

Tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce come together in one cozy, satisfying pot. Each spoonful is packed with savory flavor, gentle seasoning, and that unmistakable comfort-food warmth. It’s a no-fuss recipe made with pantry staples, yet the result tastes like something that’s been simmering all day.

What makes this goulash especially irresistible is its simplicity. Minimal prep, straightforward steps, and easy cleanup make it ideal for those nights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something comforting and reliable, this dish always delivers.

Once you make it, this easy goulash won’t just be a one-time dinner—it’ll become one of those recipes you come back to whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal that never disappoints.

Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love It

This easy goulash recipe is everything a comfort meal should be: hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels nostalgic and familiar, yet still exciting enough to make again and again. If you love cozy dinners that don’t require complicated steps or fancy ingredients, this recipe is exactly what you need.

One of the biggest reasons this goulash is so loved is how simple it is. Everything comes together in one pot, making both cooking and cleanup easy. Despite its simplicity, the flavor is rich and deeply savory, thanks to the combination of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and tender pasta simmered together.

This recipe is also incredibly family-friendly. It’s mild enough for kids, customizable for adults, and filling enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a casual weekend dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this goulash delivers comfort and consistency every time.

Most importantly, it’s reliable. You know exactly what you’re getting: a warm, satisfying bowl of food that feels like home.

Ingredients + Tips

Main Ingredients

• Ground Beef
  Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease while still delivering rich flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey if preferred.

• Onion & Garlic
  These aromatics build the flavor base and give the dish depth.

• Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes
  The combination creates a rich, slightly chunky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

• Elbow Macaroni
  A classic choice for goulash. Its shape holds the sauce well and cooks evenly in the pot.

• Seasonings
  Paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper create that signature goulash flavor without overpowering the dish.

Helpful Tips

• Brown the beef well before adding liquids to build flavor.

• Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.

• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

• Add pasta toward the end to avoid overcooking.

Steps (Goulash & Sauce)

1. Brown the Beef
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Sauté Aromatics
   Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce
   Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Add Pasta
   Stir in elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and cooked through.

6. Adjust & Rest
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Variations

This goulash recipe is highly adaptable, making it perfect for customizing based on taste or pantry availability.

• Cheesy Goulash
  Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for extra richness.

• Spicy Goulash
  Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Vegetable-Packed
  Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn add color and nutrition.

• Healthier Option
  Use whole wheat pasta and lean ground turkey.

• Extra Saucy
  Add a splash of broth or tomato sauce if you prefer a looser consistency.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Let the goulash cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Microwave reheating works well too—heat in short intervals and stir between each.

Goulash also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Goulash is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with simple sides makes it even better.

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

• Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli

• Grated cheese or fresh parsley for garnish

Serve it hot in deep bowls for the ultimate comfort meal.

Final Thoughts

Easy goulash is one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, dependable, and packed with flavor—exactly what you want when you need a satisfying meal without unnecessary effort. This dish proves that simple ingredients, when combined the right way, can create something truly special.

What makes this goulash such a standout is its balance. The savory beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce come together in a way that feels hearty without being heavy. It’s filling, warming, and deeply comforting, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to relaxed weekend dinners.

Another reason this recipe shines is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the seasoning, add vegetables, or stir in cheese to make it your own. It’s forgiving, practical, and ideal for real-life cooking—where convenience matters just as much as flavor.

Most importantly, this goulash is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, fills the house with comforting aromas, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied. Whether you’re feeding your family, cooking for friends, or simply making dinner for yourself, this easy goulash delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.

Once you add it to your rotation, it won’t just be dinner—it’ll be one of your most trusted comfort-food recipes.