Goulash Recipe Easy Ground Beef

Name: Goulash Recipe Easy Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes (do not drain); 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce; 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional); 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups beef broth (or half water, half broth); 16 oz large elbow noodles (can use up to 24 oz); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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If you want a cheesy, saucy, one-pot meal that tastes like a hug in a bowl, this easy ground beef goulash is it! Just ground beef, elbow noodles, and pantry staples make a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s always a hit—even with picky eaters. Zero fuss, minimal cleanup, and pure comfort food every time.

Bowl of cheesy goulash with elbow noodles, kidney beans, and fresh parsley. Rich, saucy, and perfect for busy nights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Goulash

Quick, foolproof, and on the table in under 45 minutes
Cheesy, meaty, noodle-packed, and kid-approved
Budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and makes great leftovers

The Ingredients—And How to Make Them Work for You

You’ll love how flexible this goulash recipe is! Here’s what you need (and a few pro swaps):

Ground Beef: Lean works best for less grease, but ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble totally work.
Elbow Noodles: The classic! You can use shells or rotini too. Love more pasta? You can bump up to 24 oz without fussing with the sauce.
Diced Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: Don’t drain the tomatoes—the juice gives you that extra-flavorful sauce. If you like it smoky, use fire-roasted.
Onion: Yellow adds a touch of sweetness, but white works in a pinch.
Cheddar Cheese: Skip the pre-shredded bag. Grab a block and shred it for melty magic.
Worcestershire Sauce: Don’t skip! This is what gives the sauce depth. It’s like a secret umami weapon.
Kidney Beans: Totally optional, but makes it heartier. You can skip if you want classic, or add a can of corn or black beans for fun.
Italian Seasoning, Garlic Salt, Black Pepper: Pantry MVPs.
Beef Broth: Adds flavor, but half water/half broth works.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a little color and fresh flavor on top.

Ingredient Swap Ideas:

Try ground turkey or even half beef/half sausage for a twist.
Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie boost.
Add a dash of smoked paprika or a bay leaf if you’re feeling fancy.

For precise amounts, check the recipe card at the end of the post.

Overhead view of goulash ingredients: elbow macaroni, cooked and raw ground beef, tomato sauce, kidney beans, onions, cheese, spices, and fresh herbs.

How To Make This Easy Ground Beef Goulash

Let’s do it! You’ll need a big pot, a wooden spoon, and about 40 minutes. Here’s what you’re doing:

1. Brown Your Beef & Onions

Get your biggest pot on medium-high. Toss in the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned, add diced onion and garlic. Let it all mingle until the onion is soft and the house starts to smell amazing.

Big pot of classic ground beef goulash simmering in tomato sauce for an easy, cozy dinner. Perfect for quick weeknight meals and comfort food lovers.

2. Build That Sauce

Dump in your tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and kidney beans (if using). Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce—don’t be shy, this is where the magic happens. Pour in the beef broth, give it a stir, and bring everything to a simmer.

Ground beef and diced onions cooking in a white pot surrounded by pasta, kidney beans, and shredded cheddar cheese. Simple family-friendly meal.

3. Noodle Time

Stir in your elbow noodles. Simmer for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just al dente. Don’t walk away—overcooked noodles get mushy, and you want them just right.

Pot of cooked macaroni and beefy tomato sauce ready to be mixed together. Fast and budget-friendly meal for busy families.

4. Make It Cheesy

Turn off the heat and stir in all that glorious shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. That’s it! Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you want to get fancy.

Large pot filled with cheesy goulash, kidney beans, and elbow noodles, ready to serve for a cozy, family-friendly dinner.

5. Serve (and Watch It Disappear)

Grab your biggest ladle, fill up some bowls, and dig in! It’s hearty, it’s cheesy, and it’s pure comfort.

Bowl of American goulash with ground beef, elbow noodles, kidney beans, and chopped parsley on top. Cozy, cheesy, and ready to eat for a quick family meal.

Pro Tips, Variations & Storage Hacks

Chef’s Tips

Prevent Soggy Noodles: Don’t overcook! They’ll keep soaking up broth even after the heat is off.
Make It Creamy: Stir in up to 1 cup sour cream right before serving for ultra-creamy goulash.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Veggie Power: Bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or even frozen corn can be tossed in with the sauce.
Smoky Vibes: A dash of smoked paprika or a bay leaf in the simmer makes it next-level.

Large pot filled with cheesy ground beef goulash, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Warm and hearty, perfect for family dinner or easy weeknight meals.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Cool leftovers, then stash in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Freeze: This dish can freeze, but the noodles may soften. If you plan to freeze, slightly undercook the pasta, cool completely, and store in freezer-safe containers.

Fun Ways to Serve It

Top with a dollop of sour cream or more shredded cheddar.
Serve with garlic bread and a big green salad.
Scoop into mugs for a cozy movie night.

Tiny Backstory: Why This Goulash Rules

I grew up on this stuff. My mom’s trick was extra Worcestershire sauce and never skimping on cheese. There’s just something about the way the noodles soak up all the flavors, and you end up with this ridiculously satisfying, scoopable pot of happiness. It’s the recipe that makes even picky eaters clean their plates (and ask for seconds).

Bowl of hot, cheesy goulash with beef, pasta, and beans, garnished with parsley. Quick dinner idea that’s kid-approved and filling.

FAQ

What’s the difference between American goulash and Hungarian goulash?

American goulash is all about ground beef, elbow noodles, and a tomato-based sauce (plus lots of cheese). Hungarian goulash is more of a beef stew, heavy on paprika and no pasta.

Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! It reheats like a champ. If you want the noodles extra perfect, cook them separately and add just before serving.

Can I use a different cheese?

For sure! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix all melt beautifully.

How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?

Keep an eye on your pot—stop cooking when they’re al dente. Remember, they’ll keep soaking up liquid after the heat is off.