If you’re looking for a comforting, one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out, this easy ground beef goulash is the answer. It’s a dish that brings back memories of home-cooked goodness and simple ingredients, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Not only is this goulash delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring it stays fresh and exciting every time you make it.
The Heart of Goulash: Understanding Its Roots
Ground beef goulash is a dish that has traveled through time, originating from Central Europe and embraced by American kitchens with open arms. This one-pot meal is a reflection of hearty, home-cooked meals that many grew up with, evoking nostalgia and warmth.
The roots of goulash can be traced back to Hungary, where it was traditionally made with beef, vegetables, and paprika. Over the years, it has evolved, with each culture adding its own twist. American versions often incorporate pasta, making it a filling and comforting dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The beauty of goulash lies in its simplicity, focusing on a handful of ingredients that come together to create a well-rounded flavor. Ground beef serves as the protein base, providing richness and depth to the dish.
Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds layers of flavor and texture. The addition of garlic enhances the savory profile, while diced tomatoes and beef broth create a luscious sauce that envelops every bite.
A sprinkle of Italian seasoning ties it all together, offering an aromatic quality that elevates the overall taste. For those who enjoy a cheesy finish, shredded cheddar adds a delightful creaminess that melts beautifully into the hot mixture.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
The combination of tender pasta, succulent beef, and a rich tomato sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Each mouthful bursts with flavors, from the savory meat to the slight tang of the tomatoes, balanced perfectly by the soft texture of the pasta.
Fresh herbs and vibrant bell peppers not only enhance the visual appeal of the goulash but also contribute a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the cooked ingredients. The melted cheese on top acts as the final touch, adding creaminess and a welcoming warmth.
Preparation: A Simple Process
One of the appealing aspects of this goulash is its straightforward preparation. In just a few steps, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve. Starting with browning the ground beef provides a great foundation for flavor development.
Adding in the vegetables at the right moment ensures they retain some of their texture while becoming infused with the meat’s savory essence. As the ingredients simmer together, the pasta absorbs the rich tomato sauce, making it a cohesive and filling dish.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Experience
Ground beef goulash is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a cozy family dinner, ladle it into bowls and accompany it with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
For a more festive occasion, consider adding a fresh side salad to complement the richness of the goulash. A light vinaigrette can balance the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors.
Don’t forget the garnish! A sprinkle of parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste that ties the entire dish together beautifully. It’s the little touches that make a meal feel complete.
Variations to Explore
While the classic version of ground beef goulash is delightful, there are countless variations to explore. For those looking to make it a bit healthier, consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Vegetable lovers can enhance the dish by incorporating mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, providing a colorful array of nutrients. The goulash can also be spiced up with additional herbs or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat.
Ultimately, the adaptability of goulash allows cooks to tailor the dish to their personal tastes, ensuring it remains a family favorite for years to come.
Ingredients
This easy ground beef goulash features tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that will fill you up and leave you craving more. The taste is a delightful blend of savory, slightly tangy, and comforting, making it a family favorite.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
Classic Easy Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Materials
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender (about 3-5 minutes).
- Mix in Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish: If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls and enjoy hot, possibly with a side of crusty bread.