If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying meal that comes together with minimal fuss, this One Pot Goulash Recipe is exactly what your dinner rotation needs. Imagine hearty ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with tender pasta all cooked in a single pot, delivering layers of warm, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s a true weeknight winner that warms the soul and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of this dish fool you—each ingredient plays a pivotal role in building that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory beef to the tangy tomato elements and creamy cheese, these staples come together like an all-star team in one pot.
- 1 lb ground beef: The rich, meaty base that brings heartiness and depth.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic punch and warmth.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a flavorful liquid foundation for simmering everything.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Provides smooth, tangy richness to the sauce.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds texture and the fresh taste of tomatoes.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives a subtle umami boost that rounds out the savory notes.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The classic pasta shape that’s perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness, making every bite indulgent.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance the dish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and subtle herbaceous flavor.
How to Make One Pot Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, browning it evenly. This step is crucial because those browned bits build a rich flavor base. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep your goulash hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic releases its intoxicating aroma. This layer of flavor gives the dish its inviting depth and warmth, making your kitchen smell like pure comfort.
Step 3: Mix in the Sauces and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and if you like a little spice, the crushed red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—this melds the flavors, creating a vibrant, hearty sauce that embraces the pasta later on.
Step 4: Add the Elbow Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s well submerged in the simmering sauce. Cover the pot to trap steam and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method cooks the pasta right in the sauce, soaking up all those fantastic flavors while keeping things simple and tidy.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened just right, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly, creating a creamy finish that makes each forkful irresistible.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your goulash and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For a final touch of freshness and color, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you have it on hand. Serve it piping hot and enjoy the cozy, flavorful magic of your homemade One Pot Goulash Recipe.
How to Serve One Pot Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple but effective garnish, fresh parsley adds a lovely burst of green and a subtle herbal note. If you want to get a bit more indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese can elevate each serving into something even more special.
Side Dishes
This hearty goulash stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans, or even a crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve individual portions in rustic ramekins topped with a sprinkle of paprika and an extra sprig of parsley. Or transform it into a casserole by layering it with extra cheese and broiling until bubbly and golden. Either way, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your goulash, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making next-day servings just as enjoyable.
Freezing
You can freeze the One Pot Goulash Recipe in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the best texture and flavor when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy consistency. If the pasta has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this One Pot Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the moisture levels since turkey can dry out faster—adding a bit more broth can help maintain a juicy texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
This One Pot Goulash Recipe is mildly spiced by default with paprika and optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, simply leave out the red pepper flakes; for more heat, feel free to add extra or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for this dish, but you can certainly swap it for other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the pasta you choose.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I prepare this in advance and reheat it for a crowd?
Yes! This One Pot Goulash Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Prepare it entirely, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving. It’s perfect for feeding a group with minimal last-minute effort.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Goulash Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home too!
Print
One Pot Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Goulash is a hearty and comforting meal that combines ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. Packed with Italian seasonings and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Seasonings and Pasta
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Bring the mixture to a simmer to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Pasta and Cook: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni until fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, coating the pasta evenly.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then serve the goulash hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce greasiness.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the goulash simmer uncovered for an extra 5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
