Beef Goulash Incredibly Delicious and Easy

This Easy Goulash Recipe is full of flavor and the perfect way to feed a crowd as it makes a huge batch! A simple skillet dinner with tomatoes, beef and macaroni noodles in a zesty tomato sauce create the perfect comfort food on a budget!

North American goulash, mentioned in cookbooks since at least 1914, exists in a number of variant recipes. Originally a dish of seasoned beef, core ingredients of American goulash now usually include elbow macaroni, cubed steak, ground beef or "hamburger", and tomatoes in some form, whether canned whole, as tomato sauce, tomato soup, and/or tomato paste.

American Goulash

Goulash (Hungarian: gulyás), is a soup or stew of meat and vegetables seasoned with paprika[1] and other spices. Originating in Hungary, goulash is a common meal predominantly eaten in Central Europe but also in other parts of Europe. It is one of the national dishes of Hungary and a symbol of the country

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like lentils or tofu for a different flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make it vegan, you'll also need to replace the cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it altogether.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Absolutely, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer. Rotini, penne, or shells would work well, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

If you're looking to substitute soy sauce, you could try using tamari, coconut aminos, or Worcestershire sauce for a similar depth of flavor.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How long will the goulash last in the refrigerator?

It should keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the recipe?

Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I serve with beef goulash?

Beef goulash pairs well with a variety of sides such as crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic first, then transferring everything to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is it necessary to use fresh tomatoes, or can I use canned tomatoes?

Either fresh or canned tomatoes will work well in this recipe. Opt for canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not in season or if you prefer the convenience.

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Beef Goulash Incredibly Delicious and Easy

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 pounds of ground beef

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pinch of cayenne pepper, or to taste

2 tablespoons paprika

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 bay leaves

4 cups chicken broth

1 (15 ounces) can of diced tomatoes

1 (24 ounces) jar of marinara sauce

1 cup of water

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 cups elbow macaroni

1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley

1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions

Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces, until browned, about 5 minutes. Cook and stir until liquid is evaporated, 3 to 5 minutes more. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne, paprika, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.

Cook and stir until flavors come together for about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and 1 cup of water and pour it into the pot. Add soy sauce, stir, and bring soup to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium and simmer to let flavors intensify for about 30 minutes.

Increase heat to medium-high and bring soup to a simmer. Add macaroni; simmer, stirring occasionally, until just barely tender, about 12 minutes. Check for doneness after 10 minutes.

Remove goulash from heat. Discard bay leaves; stir in parsley and Cheddar cheese. Taste and season as desired.

Enjoy my Beef Goulash Incredibly Delicious and Easy!