Classic Homestyle Goulash Recipe for Comforting Weeknight Dinner

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When cooler weather arrives, comfort food becomes irresistible. This Homestyle Goulash is a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.

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Goulash always brings smiles to the table. The recipe is adaptable — swap the meat, change the pasta shape, or add more vegetables to suit your family’s tastes.

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Each family seems to have its own version of goulash. This version is a classic, handed down in many households: comforting, straightforward, and well-loved for generations.

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What should I serve as a side dish?

A crisp garden salad adds freshness and crunch, and garlic cheese bread pairs beautifully with this hearty goulash.

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Can I use a different shaped pasta?

Absolutely — shells, rotini, or spirals work well and hold the sauce nicely.

What makes this a special recipe?

This goulash stands out for its ease, versatility, and comforting flavor. It’s a reliable, budget-friendly meal that appeals to both kids and adults.

How do I store this goulash?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this goulash?

For best results, freeze the sauce and meat mixture without the pasta; add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. You can freeze the fully assembled dish, but the pasta texture may change slightly.

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Ingredients:

1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions

1 tbsp olive oil

1 pound ground beef, lean

1 large yellow onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, freshly minced

1 green pepper, seeded and diced

1 ½ tsp oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp parsley, chopped

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained

How to make The Best Goulash Recipe:

Step 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.

Step 2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 3. Drain excess grease from the skillet.

Step 4. Add the diced onion, green pepper, and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.

Step 5. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, pepper, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 6. Cook 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 7. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 8. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 9. Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes more to warm through, then serve.

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Camelia

Homestyle Goulash

A comforting, family-friendly goulash that’s easy to make and budget conscious.
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
40 mins
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Calories: 516

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef, lean
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, freshly minced
  • 1 green pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 ½ tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained

Method

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and crumble in the ground beef; cook until browned.
  3. Drain excess grease.
  4. Add onions, green peppers, and garlic; sauté about 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in basil, oregano, salt, pepper, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce.
  6. Cook 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
  7. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and simmer 10 minutes over low heat.
  8. Stir in the drained pasta to coat thoroughly with sauce.
  9. Cover and cook 2–3 more minutes until heated through. Serve warm.

Notes

Serving suggestion: A garden salad and garlic cheese bread make excellent accompaniments.

THANKS FOR PINING!

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