Easy Goulash Recipe – A classic, family-favorite dish packed with tons of flavor! This homemade goulash is made in one pot (including the noodles) in just 30 minutes. So simple, quick and delicious!
When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, this goulash recipe is at the top of my list. It’s quick, flavorful and comes together in just one pot. A few of my other weeknight favorites are one pot burrito bowls, slow cooker honey chicken, sheet pan fajitas and one-pan balsamic chicken and veggies.
Goulash
Goulash is one of those comfort food recipes that the whole family will love. This goulash recipe tastes just like the one my mom made for me when I was a child, but packed with more flavor! I always loved when my mom made goulash growing up. She called it something else, which I can’t remember now (maybe just hamburger and noodles… who knows), but I think it’s more universally known as goulash. :)
The best thing about this easy goulash recipe is that it’s made in one pot in less than 30 minutes. I love that you don’t have to cook the noodles in a separate pan. Can’t beat that! Perfect for those busy week nights. I think I need a one pot meal every night of my life. Another favorite is my one pot burrito bowls… you’ll have to give that recipe a try as well!
What is goulash?
There are two types of goulash: Hungarian goulash and American goulash. Goulash originated in Hungary and was traditionally a hearty stew that consisted of cubes of meat, vegetables and spices (usually including paprika). Hungarian goulash is definitely still loved by many, however the Americanized version has become popular too.
American goulash has more of a tomato base and typically includes ground beef and macaroni as well. My version of this goulash recipe is considered an American goulash. If you’d like to try the Hungarian goulash, check out this recipe.
What is goulash made of?
Check out the goulash ingredients below. I love to top mine with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh basil. Seriously, give me all the cheese. It’s much better when it’s been freshly grated too. There’s just something about it.
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Bell Pepper (red or orange)
- Garlic (minced)
- Diced tomatoes
- Sweet corn
- Elbow noodles
- Beef or chicken broth
- Tomato sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Spices: Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, kosher salt and pepper
How to make goulash
Scroll down for the printable goulash recipe and video tutorial.
- Cook beef, onion and peppers in large pot or dutch oven until brown (about 3-5 minutes). Drain any grease if needed. Add in garlic, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt and Worcestershire sauce and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, sweet corn, chicken broth and tomato sauce and bring to light simmer. Then add in noodles, stir and cover with lid. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until noodles are tender.
- Salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with cheese and cover for about 1 minute, until cheese has melted.
- Add fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
TIP: Stir goulash every couple of minutes so that the noodles don’t stick!
Can you make goulash in a crockpot?
You can easily make this goulash recipe in the slow cooker if you prefer. I recommend cooking the ground beef ahead of time, then add all the goulash ingredients to your crockpot and stir. Cook on high for 1 hour, until noodles are tender. Remove lid and sprinkle on cheese. Cover with lid for about 1 minute, until cheese has melted. Then add fresh basil if desired and serve!
How long will goulash last in the fridge?
This easy goulash recipe will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to store in an airtight container. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on stove until warmed throughout.
Can you freeze American goulash?
Yes, goulash makes a great freezer meal. Place any leftovers in a 8×8″ metal tin and wrap with foil. Then place tin inside a ziptop bag and label with the date. When ready to eat, place goulash in the refrigerator to thaw overnight and then cook at 350°F for 30-45 minutes, or until hot. You could also top with more cheese before baking.
Easy Goulash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red or orange bell pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt , such as lawry’s
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 15 ounce can sweet corn
- 15 ounce can beef or chicken broth
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 cups dry elbow noodles
- Kosher salt and pepper , to taste
Optional: shredded cheddar cheese and fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, add beef, onion and peppers. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until brown. Drain any grease if needed. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt and Worcestershire sauce. Allow to cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, sweet corn, chicken broth and tomato sauce. Bring to a light simmer and then add in noodles. Stir, and then cover with a lid. Allow to cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir every few minutes to prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Taste and add salt and pepper. Sprinkle cheese over top if desired and cover with the lid for one minute, or until the cheese has melted.
- Add fresh basil if desired. Serve while hot!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
ENJOY! :)
My Husband and I had American Goulash. So easy to make we both love it . Delish 😋 Thank you Denise & Reggie
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! :)
Loved it
Hi there
Would like to try your American goulash recipe with the elbow noodles but while it gives all the ingredients, it says nothing about quantities?? Please can you tell me the quantities of everything that is required? Also – fresh diced tomatoes or diced tomatoes in a tin?
Hi! If you scroll down to the recipe it will have all the ingredients, amounts and instructions listed.
Wonderfully tasty and SO easy! Made this twice already, just as written. We prefer mozzarella and parmesan over your suggestion of cheddar. Served with a salad and crusty, toasted baguette. This recipe will go into my regular rotation. Thanks for the post!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for your comment Renee. :)
Very good. My 15 month old is a picky eater and he ate 2 bowls while saying “yum” after each bite. Only downfall was the pasta got too mushy. How does one ensure noodles don’t get too soft?
I’m glad it was a hit with your picky eater! I would just test the noodles after 8 minutes and cook until they are the right consistency for you. :)
Easy to make and soooo delish, thanks so much!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! :)