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.

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)

Description

This cheesy, saucy, one-pot ground beef goulash is the ultimate comfort food. Quick to make, kid-approved, and budget-friendly—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Scale

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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Instructions

In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add chopped onion and garlic. Stir occasionally until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans (if using). Stir in Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and pepper. Pour in broth. Bring to a simmer.
Add elbow noodles and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente. Do not overcook.
Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melty and combined. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
Serve hot—and enjoy!

Notes

Cool leftovers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth if needed. Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess or add veggies for more nutrition.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 510
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 85mg