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American goulash simmering in a large pot with ground beef and macaroni.

Ground Beef Goulash (The Easiest One-Pot Recipe)

This easy, one-pot Ground Beef Goulash is the ultimate comfort food. A savory American-style recipe with tender macaroni, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, ready in 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef 85/15 recommended
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 3 cups beef broth low-sodium
  • 15 oz canned tomato sauce
  • 15 oz canned petite diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Dutch oven or pot
  • 1 Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and oregano. Cook for one more minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and creamy. Serve the goulash hot.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.