Hearty Beef Goulash: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Hearty Beef Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef, 80% lean/20% fat; 3 teaspoons minced garlic; 3 cups water or beef broth; 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce; 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; 3 pieces bay leaves; 2 cups elbow macaroni, penne, or shell pasta; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

Introduction to Hearty Beef Goulash

If there’s one dish that embodies comfort and warmth, it’s a hearty beef goulash. This delightful meal is not just a simple stew; it’s a satisfying blend of ground beef, pasta, and flavorful ingredients that come together to create a delicious experience for your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Beef Goulash Journey

Growing up, my grandmother would often make goulash on chilly evenings. The aroma of simmering beef and tomatoes would fill the house, inviting everyone to the table. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a time for family and laughter. Now, as I recreate this dish, I’m reminded of those cherished moments and the warmth they brought.

What Makes This Hearty Beef Goulash Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out not only for its rich flavors but also for its simplicity. Using everyday ingredients, it transforms into a hearty meal that is both easy to prepare and delightful to serve. The combination of ground beef and pasta makes it filling, while the tomato sauce and spices deliver a comforting taste that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily modify it to suit your family’s preferences.

The Full Hearty Beef Goulash Recipe

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef, 80% lean/20% fat

3 teaspoons minced garlic
3 cups water or beef broth

2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
3 bay leaves

2 cups elbow macaroni, penne, or shell pasta
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish, so don’t rush it!
Combine Ingredients: Pour in water or beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine, then cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Pasta: Stir in the pasta, cover, and simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This will cook the pasta perfectly and soak up all the delicious flavors.

Serve: Turn off the heat, remove the bay leaves, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese before serving. The cheese adds a creamy finish that makes this dish even more irresistible!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Beef Goulash

This hearty beef goulash is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal further with some delicious serving suggestions. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; gluten-free options work wonderfully too! Remember, feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beef Goulash

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.

Is it freezer-friendly? Absolutely! This goulash freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use different types of meat? While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will work just as well.

Notes

For a cheesy finish, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top before serving. No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450

Servings: 6