Name: Easy Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
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)

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.