Why You’ll Love this Hearty Beef Goulash
When the cold weather hits and you’re craving something warm and comforting, this Hearty Beef Goulash is exactly what you need. I’m talking about a one-pot wonder that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce that’ll warm you from the inside out.
What makes this goulash special? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, uses pantry staples you likely already have, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of onions, mushrooms, and those tomatoes with green chilies gives it a flavor depth that’ll make everyone think you spent hours in the kitchen.
What Ingredients are in Hearty Beef Goulash?
This hearty beef goulash recipe calls for a perfect balance of protein, pasta, and vegetables swimming in a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
The beauty of goulash is how these simple, everyday ingredients transform into something so comforting and satisfying. When you’re searching through your pantry and fridge for dinner ideas, these ingredients might just be waiting for you to bring them together.
- 1 package pasta
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomatoes and green chilies
- Salt and pepper to taste
While the recipe is pretty straightforward, you can certainly customize it to your taste preferences.
If you prefer a spicier goulash, look for tomatoes with hot green chilies, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a more substantial dish, you might consider adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots.
And while the recipe calls for “pasta” without specifying a type, I find that elbow macaroni or shell pasta works best for holding all that delicious sauce.
Remember to season generously—a good goulash really benefits from proper salt and pepper levels to bring all those flavors together.
How to Make this Hearty Beef Goulash
Making this goulash couldn’t be simpler, and it’s the perfect one-pot wonder for busy weeknights. Start by cooking your package of pasta according to the directions on the box—just remember to salt your water generously (it should taste like the sea).
While the pasta is bubbling away, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced medium onion and cup of mushrooms, and sauté them until they’re tender and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
There’s something so therapeutic about watching vegetables soften and release their aromas, don’t you agree?
Once your veggies are ready, it’s time to add the 1 pound of extra lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and brown it thoroughly, making sure there’s no pink left.
Now comes the flavor boost—pour in that 6-ounce can of tomato sauce and the 15-ounce can of tomatoes and green chilies (juice and all). Give everything a good stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, being generous with both.
For an even easier preparation method, consider using a multi-function pressure cooker to reduce cooking time and simplify the process.
To save time on chopping ingredients, a premium food processor can make quick work of dicing onions and other vegetables for your goulash.
Finally, add your drained pasta right into the beef mixture, stirring gently to coat every noodle with that rich, tomatoey sauce. Let everything heat through for another minute or two, and voilà—your hearty beef goulash is ready to serve, preferably in deep bowls with a sprinkle of cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Hearty Beef Goulash Substitutions and Variations
Despite its traditional roots, our hearty beef goulash welcomes creative substitutions to match your pantry and preferences. Can’t find ground beef? Try ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter twist. The pasta’s flexible too—shells, bowties, or penne all work beautifully in this dish.
Not a mushroom fan? Simply leave them out or swap in diced bell peppers for color and crunch. For a spicier kick, I’d add a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes. And if you’re watching carbs, zucchini noodles make a surprisingly satisfying base. Cooking is all about making it your own, isn’t it?
What to Serve with Hearty Beef Goulash
A great meal deserves worthy companions, and our hearty beef goulash is no exception.
I always reach for a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of this dish. Crusty garlic bread? Perfect for sopping up that savory sauce.
For vegetables, consider roasted brussels sprouts or steamed green beans with a touch of lemon zest.
Want something more substantial? Mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles complement the beefy flavor beautifully.
Need a beverage pairing? A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a cold amber ale works wonders.
Water with lemon slices, anyone?
Final Thoughts
After spending time in your kitchen with this hearty beef goulash recipe, I’m convinced it’s one of those meals that brings people together.
There’s something magical about pasta mingling with savory ground beef and those tender sautéed vegetables, all coated in rich tomato sauce.
It’s versatile, too—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you need something reliable.
The leftovers? Even better the next day when the flavors have had time to deepen.
Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, satisfying results.
Isn’t that what comfort food is all about? This goulash delivers every time.
And for a delicious breakfast alternative that requires minimal ingredients, try homemade waffles that come together with just a quick whisk.
For another classic comfort dish, try a traditional ground beef meatloaf baked with onion soup mix and topped with tomato sauce.
