Easy Beef Goulash with Pasta and Cheddar Recipe

Introduction

This hearty Beef Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato flavors, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth (or half water and half broth)
• 16 oz large elbow noodles (can use up to 24 oz pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans (if using). Add Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Add the elbow noodles to the pot. Continue simmering for another 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente, stirring periodically. Be careful not to overcook the noodles as they will continue absorbing liquid after cooking.
5. Step 5: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use reduced-fat cheese.
• You can add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when adding the seasonings.
• Using leftover cooked pasta instead of dry noodles works too; add it at the end and warm through without simmering.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. This dish does not freeze well due to the pasta.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the elbow noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prepare the goulash up to the point before adding the noodles, refrigerate, and then add the pasta and cheese when reheating to keep the noodles from overcooking.

Easy Beef Goulash with Pasta and Cheddar Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 102 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty Beef Goulash recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and elbow noodles in a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Cooked on the stovetop until tender and topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Produce

• 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Canned Goods

• 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Dry Goods and Seasonings

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 16 oz large elbow noodles (can use up to 24 oz pasta)

Liquids

• 4 cups beef broth (or can use half water and half broth)

Dairy

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, thoroughly brown the ground beef, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary before proceeding.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans (if using). Season with Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the Noodles: Add the elbow noodles to the simmering sauce. Continue simmering for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring periodically to prevent sticking. Be careful not to overcook, as the noodles will absorb more liquid after cooking.
5. Finish with Cheese and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Drain excess grease after browning beef to keep the dish from being too greasy.
• Kidney beans are optional but add extra protein and texture.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use reduced-fat cheese.
• Adding parsley on top adds fresh color and flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: beef goulash, ground beef recipe, goulash with noodles, easy beef dinner, one pot goulash