Name: Homemade Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 yellow onion, chopped; 2 pounds lean ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 cups chicken stock; 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce; 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes; 1 can corn drained; 2 tablespoons dried Italian herb seasoning; 1 tablespoon seasoned salt, or to taste; 3 bay leaves; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Jump to Recipe

Need a comforting dinner idea? This homemade goulash recipe is perfect for busy families who want something easy, filling, and kid-approved. Made with pantry staples, it comes together quickly—ideal for hectic nights when time is short and everyone’s hungry. Even picky eaters enjoy the hearty flavors, making it a stress-free win at the dinner table. With minimal prep and big taste, this dish deserves a regular spot in your weekly meal rotation.

If dinnertime feels like a struggle, you’re not alone—every mom hits that “what should I make?” wall sometimes. So if you’re looking to switch things up, this is one of those beef recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional cook to make this. Whether you’re just learning or a seasoned pro, this recipe is completely doable. It’s not fancy, it’s not fussy, and it won’t leave you with a sink full of dishes. Just simple steps, real ingredients, and a warm, satisfying meal your whole family will actually eat. If cooking ever feels overwhelming, this is one recipe that makes things feel manageable again.

Ground Beef Dinner Ideas

If you’re loving easy meals like this, don’t stop with goulash—there are so many yummy ideas here on my blog. I believe your family would love any of these recipes. All of them are favorites at my house.

With recipes like these, dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be a win!

Ingredients Needed To Make This Homemade Goulash Recipe

This hearty and flavorful meal comes together quickly and uses minimal ingredients you likely already have on hand. These simple components work together to create a rich, comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family on a busy night. From the tender ground beef and savory tomato base to the perfectly cooked macaroni and classic seasonings, every bite delivers big flavor without the stress. Let’s take a closer look at why each ingredient matters.

Ingredient List and Why Each One Matters:

elbow macaroni
Classic and hearty—these noodles soak up the sauce and make the dish a true one-pot wonder.

olive oil
Helps sauté the onion and garlic, adding depth and richness to the dish right from the start.

yellow onion
Adds sweetness and aroma—onions are the backbone of flavor in hearty comfort food like this.

lean ground beef
The star protein of the recipe, making it filling and satisfying. Lean beef keeps it hearty without being greasy.

garlic
Brings a bold, savory punch and enhances every other flavor in the pot.

chicken stock
Adds moisture and layers of savory flavor that go beyond just water—keeps everything rich and well-seasoned.

tomato sauce
Forms the base of the dish, giving it that rich, classic goulash texture and tomato flavor.

diced tomatoes
Adds a chunky texture and bright, tangy contrast to the smooth sauce.

corn
Offers a slight sweetness and pop of texture, balancing the savory flavors perfectly.

dried Italian herb seasoning
A flavorful blend that brings in herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme—essential for that deep, comforting taste.

seasoned salt
Enhances all the flavors and makes sure the final dish is anything but bland.

bay leaves
Infuse the goulash with a subtle earthy flavor that builds as it simmers.

By now you should be able to see just how easy it is to make something filling and satisfying for your family without breaking the bank or using an endless list of supplies.

Still on the fence? Here’s the thing—this goulash isn’t just a dinner recipe, it’s a chance to sit down, breathe, and reconnect at the table. In just one pot, you’ve got comfort, flavor, and a moment of calm in the middle of a chaotic day. Try it once, and you’re sure to make it again!

What’s the difference between goulash and American goulash?

Traditional goulash is a Hungarian stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and vegetables, simmered slowly for deep, rich flavor. American goulash, on the other hand, is a quick, one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni. While the Hungarian version is more of a soup or stew, the American version is thick, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights. Both are comforting, but American goulash is the easier, faster option your whole family will love.

Can you freeze goulash?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze leftover goulash! It freezes well and makes a great make-ahead meal for busy nights. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for an easy, delicious dinner.

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Tips for Freezing Leftover Goulash

Freezing goulash is a great way to save leftovers or prep meals in advance! Here are some handy tips to ensure it freezes and reheats well:

Cool It Down First: Let the goulash cool to room temperature before freezing. This prevents condensation and ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture.
Portion It Out: Freeze in individual or meal-sized portions for easy reheating. This way, you only thaw what you need.
Label and Date: Clearly label the container or bag with the contents and the date you froze it. Goulash can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Avoid Overcooking Pasta: If your goulash contains pasta, slightly undercook it before freezing. This helps it maintain a better texture when reheated.
Add Dairy Later: If your goulash recipe includes sour cream or other dairy, consider adding it after reheating, as dairy can sometimes separate or become grainy when frozen.
Reheat Gently: Thaw the goulash in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.

These are the things I take into account when I freeze goulash or anything with pasta in it.

What Sides go well with Goulash?

No cozy weeknight dinner is complete without a tasty side to bring everything together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just keeping it simple, these options always satisfy.

🥖 1. Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up that savory tomato sauce—plus, it’s always a hit with kids.

🥗 2. Simple Green Salad

A light salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes balances out the richness of the goulash.

🌽 3. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables

Green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots add color and nutrients to the meal without extra fuss.

🧀 4. Cheesy Breadsticks

If you’re feeding a crowd or want to make it feel extra cozy, breadsticks with melted cheese are always welcome.

🍎 5. Applesauce or Sliced Fruit

Especially great for kids, a side of applesauce or apple slices adds a touch of sweetness to round out the meal.

Recipes with Elbow Macaroni

When it comes to pantry staples, elbow macaroni deserves a spot at the top of the list. Small but mighty, this versatile pasta shape is more than just a vessel for cheese sauce. It’s a blank canvas for hearty, comforting dinners that can suit almost any flavor or dietary preference.

Additionally, it’s cost-effective and available at almost every grocery store. Affordable and reliable, pasta should be a staple in every kitchen. Now, let’s look at these delicious ways to use it.

Elbow macaroni works equally well in pasta salads, chili mac, and even as a thickener in stews. Its adaptability allows you to tailor dishes to your family’s tastes, experiment with new flavors, and even use up leftover ingredients sitting in your fridge.