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One Pot Goulash Recipe

One Pot Goulash Recipe - Easy Meals To Cook

When I think of comfort food, One Pot Goulash comes to mind. It's not just another meal; it’s a memory wrapped in flavors, infused with the unity of spices, meat, and pasta. I remember the first time I made it in my cramped little kitchen. 
The aroma filled the room, similar to my grandma's house during the holidays. Friends from across the street came running over as soon as they caught a whiff, eager to share in the deliciousness.
This dish has a way of drawing people together. With just one pot on the stove, you can serve a crowd. It’s easy, satisfying, and downright delicious. So, let’s dive into what makes One Pot Goulash so special.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 419
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced thinly
  • 2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 can tomato sauce 29 oz
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained 28 oz
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs blend
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1-2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
  1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which takes about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
  1. Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the meat until it’s fully cooked, approximately 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
  1. Toss in the diced bell pepper and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes & Spices
  1. Pour in the tomato sauce and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well to combine. Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, sugar, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.
Step 5: Add Water and Pasta
  1. Pour in the water and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
  1. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be cooked al dente, absorbing all those fantastic flavors.
Step 7: Final Touches
  1. Once the pasta is done, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh oregano. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • Cooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, so strive for al dente.
  • Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the meat. It enhances the sauce's richness.
  • Make It Ahead: You can prepare goulash ahead of time and reheat. Just add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
  • Garnishing: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of parsley before serving for an extra flavor layer.