The Best Goulash Recipe

A Classic Comfort Dish to Warm Your Soul

Goulash is a classic, comforting dish that has warmed hearts and satisfied appetites for generations. Originating in Eastern Europe, this one-pot meal is celebrated for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, goulash can be made quickly and easily, making it an ideal meal for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in. This recipe brings out the best in traditional flavors while incorporating an American twist with macaroni noodles and cheddar cheese.

What Makes This Goulash Recipe Special?

This goulash recipe stands out for its depth of flavor and hearty texture. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned with a blend of Italian spices and Worcestershire sauce, giving it a deep, savory richness that complements the tomatoes and broth. The addition of macaroni noodles and cheddar cheese gives it a creamy texture and a comforting twist, making this recipe a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients for the Best Goulash Recipe

For this recipe, we’ll need a mix of fresh vegetables, seasonings, and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 3 tsp garlic, minced
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (15 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 3 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, robust dish with layers of savory taste and textures. The beef broth and Worcestershire sauce add depth, while the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes provide a fresh, tangy balance. Seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves lend classic flavors, creating a comforting and well-rounded taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Goulash

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add diced onions and diced green bell pepper. Sauté them until they soften, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma.
3. Add 2 pounds of lean ground beef to the pot. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks for an even texture. Be sure to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
4. Add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Garlic adds an aromatic, slightly spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor of the goulash.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings

1. Pour in 2 (15 oz) cans of tomato sauce and 2 (15 oz) cans of petite diced tomatoes. These provide the dish’s rich tomato base, adding a fresh, tangy flavor.
2. Add 3 cups of beef broth, which deepens the savory notes of the goulash.
3. Stir in 3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, adding a touch of complexity with its umami-rich flavor.
4. Season the mixture with 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt and 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning. This combination brings out the traditional Italian flavors, while seasoned salt enhances the overall taste.
5. Place 3 bay leaves into the pot. Bay leaves add a subtle earthy aroma and are known for enhancing savory dishes like goulash.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles and Simmer

1. Add 2 cups of uncooked macaroni noodles into the pot and give everything a good stir.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the noodles don’t stick to the bottom.
3. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a light simmer. Let the goulash cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors meld together, creating a rich and satisfying taste that makes goulash such a beloved dish.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch – Cheddar Cheese

1. Once the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat.
2. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts, creating a creamy and slightly tangy finish that complements the savory flavors.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a little extra salt or pepper to suit your preference.

Tips for Making the Best Goulash

• Choose Quality Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this recipe as it minimizes excess fat, creating a cleaner, more flavorful dish.
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you prefer a fresher flavor, try adding chopped parsley or basil just before serving.
• Cheddar Cheese Options: While cheddar is the cheese of choice here, you can experiment with other types like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different textures and flavors.

Why This Goulash Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This goulash is a perfect comfort meal for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or making a large batch to freeze and enjoy throughout the week. The hearty ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese combine beautifully, creating a balanced, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please everyone.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Goulash is delicious served on its own, but you can elevate it by pairing it with a few simple sides:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make excellent sides.

How to Store and Reheat Goulash

1. Refrigerate: Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freeze: Goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
3. Reheat: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: This is an estimate, as portion sizes and specific ingredients may vary.

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g

Conclusion

This goulash recipe brings together classic flavors with a unique twist that everyone will love. With its rich, hearty ingredients and comforting textures, it’s easy to see why goulash has become a beloved dish around the world. Try this recipe for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home.