Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

There’s something special about a hearty meal that brings the family together. Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is one of those dishes that warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. This comforting dish combines tender beef, flavorful tomatoes, and cheesy pasta all in one pot.

The best part about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and a single pot, you can create a delectable meal perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is a delightful choice for several reasons. It’s a comforting dish that provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and flavor. Not only does it taste great, but it also allows for quick preparation and easy cleanup.

This dish can feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to tweak ingredients to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

Equipment Needed for Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.

A 6-quart Dutch oven or large pot
A cutting board
A sharp knife
A wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons and cups

These simple tools will help you make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

What You Need to Make Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

1 medium yellow onion
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 can (15 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups low sodium beef or chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 cup dried elbow macaroni (about 4 ounces)
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup), plus more for serving

How to Cook Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash Step by Step

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the medium yellow onion and mince two cloves of garlic. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in your 6-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes, or until the onion has softened. After the onion is ready, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Now it’s time to add the lean ground beef. Season it with one teaspoon of kosher salt and half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Cook the beef until it is browned, which should take about five to seven minutes. Make sure to break it up with your spoon as it cooks for even browning.

Next, stir in one tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for one to two minutes. This step helps deepen the flavor of the dish. Now, add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, low sodium beef or chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian seasoning, and two bay leaves. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a boil.

After it reaches a boil, it’s time to add the dried elbow macaroni. Stir it in gently, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the goulash simmer uncovered for about fifteen to eighteen minutes, making sure to stir occasionally. This allows the pasta to cook perfectly in the flavorful broth.

Once the pasta has become tender and the mixture is thickened, remove the pot from heat. Discard the two bay leaves and stir in four ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is fully incorporated. If desired, top with additional cheese for serving.

How to Make Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is straightforward and enjoyable to make. Start by preparing your ingredients, ensuring everything is ready when you begin cooking. This helps you maintain a smooth workflow in the kitchen.

Next, follow the steps for cooking as outlined. The process involves sautéing, simmering, and mixing. Each step allows the flavors to develop and blend, creating a deliciously comforting meal you and your loved ones will adore.

Cooking this dish is not only straightforward but also rewarding. Each pot of goulash serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest meals bring the most joy.

How to Serve Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

Serving Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is as easy as it is to make. Scoop a generous portion into a bowl or plate. If you like, sprinkle some extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for added cheesiness and flavor.

This goulash can be enjoyed on its own or with a simple side salad to balance the meal. The creamy richness from the cheese and the savory notes from the beef create a delightful harmony in each bite.

If you want, serve some crusty bread or fresh rolls on the side. They are perfect for dipping into the delicious goulash.

What to Serve with Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

While Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is a hearty meal by itself, you may want to consider a few sides to round out your dining experience. A fresh green salad works wonderfully, providing a crisp texture to contrast the hot, cheesy dish.

You could also serve it with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the saucy goodness. For a more substantial complement, steamed vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes can add variety and nutritional balance to your meal.

How to Store Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

Storing Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is simple and can help you enjoy future meals without additional cooking. Once the goulash has completely cooled, transfer it to airtight containers. Glass containers work well for this purpose, but any sealable plastic container is also fine.

This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing portions. The goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

When you’re ready to heat it up, you can do so in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra broth or water if it seems too thick when reheating after freezing.

Tips to Make Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

To really enhance the flavors in your Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash, consider these helpful tips. First, browning the meat well at the beginning helps develop depth in the dish.

Using fresh tomatoes, if available, can also boost the flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist or toss in some chopped bell peppers for added sweetness and texture.

Feel free to play around with the cheese! Mixing different types of cheese can create a unique flavor profile. You might also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.

Variation

While the classic Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is delicious on its own, there are several variations to try. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein or lentils, making sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

You could also add different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. These will not only enhance the nutritional value but also add interesting textures and flavors.

Another variation is to switch up the pasta. While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can try using shells or penne for a fun twist on the goulash.

Best Time to Make Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash

Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is perfect for any meal throughout the week. However, it shines particularly on busy weeknights when time is limited. The one-pot aspect means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.

This dish can also be a fantastic option for potluck gatherings or family events. Its ability to serve multiple people while remaining comforting makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash, there are a few pitfalls to keep in mind. One common mistake is not browning the meat enough. This can lead to a less flavorful base.

Additionally, avoid skipping the simmering step after adding the macaroni. This crucial time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and cohesive dish.

Lastly, make sure to double-check the seasoning before serving. Tasting before you finish helps ensure the right balance of flavors.

Nutritional Notes

While Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is delicious, it’s essential to keep nutritional values in mind. This dish provides a good source of protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the pasta.

The addition of tomatoes contributes vitamins C and A, while cheese adds calcium. If you include vegetables, you further enhance the nutritional content, making this a satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I make this goulash in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld overnight.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options can be substituted for the ground beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes! Leftover goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers.

Conclusion

Easy One-Pot Beef Goulash is the ideal meal for simple comfort food that fulfills cravings. With straightforward preparation, minimal cleanup, and delightful flavors, it has become a favorite in many kitchens.

This recipe allows you to get creative with variations while still keeping it easy and delicious. Whether on a busy weekday or sharing with friends and family, this goulash is a fantastic addition to any table and a true representation of hearty home cooking.