We Called It Goulash

Warm, hearty, and undeniably comforting, "We Called It Goulash" is the ultimate one-pot dinner that brings together simple pantry staples for big, nostalgic flavors. Featuring savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based broth enhanced with paprika, oregano, and basil, this dish is a weeknight classic the whole family will love. Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings and can be garnished with shredded cheddar and fresh parsley for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether served solo or alongside crusty bread, this easy goulash recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for satisfying your cravings for a hearty, homestyle meal. Ideal for meal prep and made with ingredients you likely already have, this recipe offers a delicious blend of flavor and convenience.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.

Step 4

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir again. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed some of the flavorful liquid.

Step 6

Taste the goulash and adjust seasonings if necessary. Add more salt and pepper to taste, if needed.

Step 7

Remove the pot from heat. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and/or chopped parsley over the top for garnish.

Step 8

Serve hot in bowls and enjoy this comforting and nostalgic dish with your favorite sides or a slice of crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2181.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2861.0

Total Fat 153.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 63.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.8g
Cholesterol 436.9mg	0%
Sodium 4965.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 232.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 30.0g	0%
Total Sugars 45.3g
Protein 148.0g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 1236.4mg	0%
Iron 17.9mg	0%
Potassium 3434.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.5%

Protein: 20.4%

Carbs: 32.1%