If you are looking for a comforting meal that brings warmth and ease to your dinner table, this One Pot Goulash Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining perfectly seasoned ground beef with tender elbow macaroni, vibrant tomatoes, and a rich, savory sauce, it creates a cozy, hearty dish everyone will love. What makes this recipe truly delightful is how it all comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and letting the flavors meld beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a group of friends, this recipe guarantees a satisfying, delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for capturing the authentic flavor and texture that makes One Pot Goulash Recipe so beloved. Each component plays a special role, from the juicy ground beef providing richness to the tomato sauce lending a tangy depth, and the elbow macaroni delivering just the right bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the beef and sauté the veggies while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes the dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a mild crunch when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and cooks right in the pot.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Provides a smooth, rich tomato base.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices: Adds texture and fresh tomato flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds flavor and ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a tangy, savory twist that deepens the taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a medley of herbs for balanced seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky note.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a tiny kick to elevate the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts in beautifully for creamy, cheesy indulgence.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the dish.
How to Make One Pot Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until nicely browned and no longer pink. This step builds the rich, meaty flavor that everything else will rest on. After draining any excess fat if needed, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions soften and everything smells irresistible, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Pasta and Flavorful Ingredients
Next, stir in your uncooked elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix is where all the flavors are going to shine together, so make sure everything is evenly combined. Bringing this mixture to a boil sets the stage for the pasta to soak up all those delicious tastes as it cooks.
Step 3: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Once boiling, lower the heat to low and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the macaroni softens and the sauce thickens as the flavors marry into a comforting blend that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
If you love that melty, cheesy touch, stir in the shredded cheddar during the last few minutes of cooking until it completely melts into the sauce. Remove the pot from heat and allow it to rest uncovered for five minutes. This slight resting phase lets the goulash thicken up to just the perfect consistency. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving, it adds a pretty splash of color and fresh aroma.
How to Serve One Pot Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese can elevate the presentation and add layers of flavor. A dollop of sour cream can also add creaminess and a tangy contrast that many find delightful. Garnishing isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a rounded, inviting experience for your taste buds.
Side Dishes
Though this recipe is mindful of being a complete one-pot meal, you can serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for added freshness and texture. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make fantastic companions to sop up any extra sauce and add a crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Serve the goulash in individual ramekins topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese and parsley, then broil for a minute to create a bubbly, golden crust. Another fun idea: scoop it into bell pepper halves or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful, festive twist perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Goulash Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture, which helps keep the texture just right on reheating.
Freezing
This goulash freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. When properly thawed, it retains its flavor and texture exceptionally well, so you get all the comforting goodness whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the goulash gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions, just cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken make great substitutes for a lighter version of One Pot Goulash Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as leaner meats may cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan way to make this goulash?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or use hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and either omit the cheese or substitute with dairy-free cheese options.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later?
Definitely. One Pot Goulash Recipe actually benefits from resting a bit in the fridge as the flavors deepen. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently as directed for a perfectly delicious meal the next day.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild warmth from the paprika and pepper but is not spicy hot. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
What type of cheese works best in One Pot Goulash Recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic here due to its creamy melt and sharp flavor, but you can also try mozzarella for a gooey stretchiness or a smoked cheese for an extra depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Goulash Recipe is a wonderful testament to how comforting, quick, and flavorful meals can be made with just a handful of ingredients in a single pot. It’s reassuringly simple yet packed with bold, delicious tones that make it a family favorite time and again. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new go-to weeknight dinner that feels like a warm welcome every time you sit down to eat.
Print
One Pot Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free (without cheese)
Description
This One Pot Goulash is a hearty and comforting American classic featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s flavorful, cheesy, and easy to make with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add Pasta and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender and flavors meld together.
- Add Cheese: If using cheddar cheese, stir it into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking to allow it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let the goulash sit uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
- Omit cheese and use dairy-free alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
