The Best Goulash Recipe
Introduction
This hearty goulash combines tender ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce with a hint of cumin. It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 28 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained
- ⅔ cup frozen corn
- 8 oz. tomato sauce
- 4 oz. can diced green chilis
- ½ tsp. cumin
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until cooked to your liking. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), frozen corn, tomato sauce, diced green chilis, salt, black pepper, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 5: Stir in the cooked macaroni and chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a minced garlic clove with the onions or a pinch of smoked paprika with the cumin.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of green chilis or add a dash of chili powder.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the goulash feels too thick.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze goulash in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
PrintThe Best Goulash Recipe
A hearty and comforting classic American goulash featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce with a hint of cumin and fresh cilantro. This one-pan skillet meal is easy to prepare, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. Ground beef
- 1 C. Uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 28 oz. Diced tomatoes, undrained
- ⅔ C. Frozen corn
- 8 oz. Tomato sauce
- 4 oz. Can diced green chilis
- ½ tsp. Cumin
- ¼ tsp. Salt
- ½ tsp. Black pepper
- ¼ C. Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until it is done to your liking. Once cooked, rinse the macaroni with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain completely.
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to reduce fat content.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), frozen corn, tomato sauce, diced green chilis, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the skillet contents to a boil, then immediately lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Combine Macaroni and Cilantro: Stir the drained elbow macaroni and chopped fresh cilantro into the skillet mixture. Mix thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and herbs.
- Serve: Once everything is heated through, serve the goulash warm, optionally garnished with extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- Draining excess grease after browning the beef reduces fat and calories.
- Rinsing the macaroni prevents it from sticking together in the finished dish.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but it can be substituted with parsley if preferred.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: goulash, ground beef goulash, American goulash, one-pot meal, easy dinner, comforting skillet meal, elbow macaroni recipe
