Name: Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger – A Classic Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth; 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

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Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. While the traditional Hungarian version is a rich stew with beef and paprika, the American adaptation is a quick and easy pasta-based meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This simple goulash recipe with hamburger is beloved for its ease of preparation, affordability, and delicious flavor.

Not only is this dish budget-friendly, but it also requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re feeding a large family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy goulash recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to tweak the seasonings, add vegetables, or even make it a cheesy, creamy delight!

What is Goulash? Understanding This Classic Dish

The Origin of Goulash – A Hungarian Staple Turned American Classic

Goulash has its roots in Hungarian cuisine, where it was traditionally prepared as a slow-cooked stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and a variety of vegetables. Over time, this dish spread across Europe and beyond, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients.

When goulash made its way to the United States, it transformed into a simplified, pasta-based dish, often referred to as American goulash or hamburger goulash. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, this version is quicker to make, requiring just ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings.

Differences Between Hungarian and American Goulash

Hungarian Goulash:
- Made with chunks of beef rather than ground beef.
- Uses a paprika-based broth with potatoes and vegetables.
- Often has a thicker, stew-like consistency.
American Goulash:
- Uses ground beef (hamburger) for a quicker cook time.
- Includes elbow macaroni for a heartier, pasta-filled meal.
- Features a tomato-based sauce with simple seasonings.

Why Hamburger Goulash is So Popular Today

The American adaptation of goulash is a one-pot meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s loved for its:
✅ Simplicity – Requires minimal ingredients and effort.
✅ Affordability – Uses budget-friendly pantry staples.
✅ Versatility – Can be customized with different proteins, veggies, and seasonings.
✅ Speed – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for the Best Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To make the best hamburger goulash, you only need a handful of essential ingredients:

Ground beef (hamburger) – The base of the dish, adding richness and protein.
Elbow macaroni – A classic pasta choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Tomatoes – Use canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, or fresh tomatoes for a vibrant, tangy base.
Spices and seasoning blends – Garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika enhance the flavor.
Cheese (optional) – Adding shredded cheddar or parmesan can make it extra creamy and indulgent.

Optional Ingredients for More Flavor

If you want to enhance the taste and texture, consider adding:

Bell peppers, onions, garlic – These ingredients bring depth and natural sweetness.
Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce – Adds a hint of umami richness.
Paprika – A nod to the Hungarian roots, giving the dish a warm, smoky flavor.

Ingredients needed for a Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger, neatly displayed in a home kitchen.

Substitutes for a Healthier or Different Take

Looking for a lighter or alternative version of hamburger goulash? Try these substitutions:

Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use gluten-free pasta to make it celiac-friendly.
Opt for low-sodium or dairy-free alternatives to suit dietary needs.

For another comforting and hearty dish, you might also enjoy this delicious baked beans and hamburger recipe from Vibrant Dishes!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger

Making simple goulash recipe with hamburger is incredibly easy, requiring just a few key steps. With the right technique, you can achieve a flavorful, hearty, and satisfying meal in less than an hour. Below, we break it down into simple, manageable steps to ensure success.

Preparation: Getting Ingredients Ready

Before cooking, it’s important to gather and prep all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

✅ Ingredients Checklist:

1 lb ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Once everything is measured and chopped, you’re ready to start cooking!

Cooking the Ground Beef – Best Techniques for Flavor

Cooking the ground beef properly ensures a rich, savory base for the goulash. Here’s how to get it just right:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if your beef is lean.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy sauce.

🔹 Pro Tip: Browning the beef properly develops deep flavor, so don’t rush this step!

Step-by-step image showing ground beef being cooked for a Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger.

Adding Seasonings and Simmering for the Perfect Taste

Now that the beef is cooked, it’s time to build layers of flavor:

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add beef broth and mix well to create a rich, tomato-based sauce.
Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors.

🔥 Key tip: Simmering allows the ingredients to blend, giving the goulash its signature taste.

Cooking the Pasta: Should You Boil Separately or Together?

You have two options when it comes to cooking the macaroni:

Method	Pros	Cons
Boil Separately	Pasta stays al dente	More dishes to clean
Cook in the Sauce	Absorbs more flavor	Risk of overcooking

For a true one-pot meal, cook the macaroni directly in the sauce:

Stir in the uncooked macaroni and cover the skillet.
Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat.

If you prefer firmer pasta, boil it separately and mix it in just before serving.

Mixing Everything Together – The Final Steps

At this point, your hamburger goulash is almost ready! Follow these final steps to bring everything together:

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy finish (optional).
Let the goulash rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with your favorite side dish!

A delicious bowl of Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger, garnished with parsley and cheese.

Optional: Adding Cheese and Extra Toppings

Want to take your goulash to the next level? Try these optional toppings:

🧀 Cheese Options: Cheddar, Parmesan, Mozzarella
🌿 Fresh Herbs: Parsley, Basil, Chives
🌶️ Spicy Kick: Red Pepper Flakes, Hot Sauce

Adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top while the goulash is hot creates a melty, irresistible texture!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Goulash

How to Thicken or Thin Your Goulash

Too Thick? Add a little more beef broth or tomato sauce.
Too Thin? Let it simmer longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

Adjusting the Seasoning to Your Taste

Everyone has different flavor preferences, so feel free to tweak:

For a richer taste: Add more Worcestershire sauce.
For more warmth: Increase the paprika or add a pinch of cayenne.
For extra umami: Try a dash of soy sauce!

Best Cooking Tools and Methods (Slow Cooker, Stove, Instant Pot)

Stovetop (Best for Quick Cooking) – Ready in 30-40 minutes.
Slow Cooker (For Deeper Flavor) – Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Instant Pot (Fast and Easy) – Pressure cook for 10 minutes.

Making It Ahead of Time – Meal Prep Tips

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Goulash freezes well for up to 3 months!
Reheating: Add a little water or broth before microwaving to restore texture.

Variations of Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger

Classic Hungarian Goulash vs. American Goulash

Feature	Hungarian Goulash	American Goulash
Meat	Beef chunks	Ground beef
Base	Broth with paprika	Tomato sauce
Texture	Stew-like	Pasta-based

One-Pot Goulash – Fewer Dishes, Same Great Taste

Want an even easier cleanup? Cook everything in one pot, letting the pasta soak up the delicious sauce.

Cheesy Goulash – Adding a Creamy Twist

Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer, creamier version!

Spicy Goulash – Turning Up the Heat

Add:

Chili powder or cayenne for a spicier kick.
Jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat!

Vegetarian and Vegan Goulash Alternatives

Swap the meat for:

Lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Plant-based crumbles for a meaty feel.
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

For another delicious pasta dish, check out this best ramen lasagna recipe for a unique twist!

What to Serve with Goulash? Best Side Dishes

A bowl of simple goulash recipe with hamburger is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can take the experience to another level. Whether you want a crunchy contrast or a soft, comforting bite, these options will perfectly complement your goulash.

Bread and Rolls – The Best Dipping Options

Goulash has a rich, savory sauce, making bread the perfect companion for soaking up every last drop. Some great choices include:

Crusty French bread – Perfect for dipping into the sauce.
Garlic bread – Adds a flavorful, buttery touch.
Dinner rolls – Soft and airy, ideal for absorbing the goulash flavors.

Fresh Salads to Balance the Richness

Since goulash is hearty and rich, a fresh, crisp salad can create a delicious balance:

Classic garden salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Caesar salad with a tangy dressing for contrast.
Cabbage slaw for a crunchy, refreshing bite.

Roasted Vegetables – A Healthy Side Choice

Roasted vegetables bring extra texture and natural sweetness, which pairs well with the bold flavors of goulash. Some great options include:

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze.
Caramelized carrots for a hint of sweetness.
Garlic butter green beans for a savory, crunchy side.

Beverages That Pair Well with Goulash

Pairing the right drink with goulash enhances the dining experience:

Red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet) complements the tomato-based sauce.
Iced tea provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
Dark beer adds depth to the rich flavors of the goulash.

For another comforting side dish idea, check out this creamy coconut shrimp recipe for a flavorful pairing!

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Goulash

Goulash makes excellent leftovers because the flavors deepen over time. Proper storage and reheating ensure it tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Refrigeration vs. Freezing – How Long Does It Last?

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Goulash freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Properly stored Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger in airtight containers for meal prep.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

To maintain the best taste and texture, follow these reheating methods:

Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, to avoid uneven heating.

How to Refresh Leftover Goulash (Adding Moisture Back)

Leftover goulash can thicken over time, but you can easily fix it:

Add a little beef broth or tomato sauce while reheating.
Stir in a splash of milk or cream for a slightly richer texture.

FAQs About Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger

Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the ground beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the elbow macaroni separately and mix it in before serving.
If cooking in one pot, check pasta 5 minutes before the recommended time.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use 4-5 fresh tomatoes, diced. Simmer them longer to break them down into a rich sauce.

What’s the best type of pasta for goulash?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can also use:

Rotini for extra sauce absorption.
Penne for a heartier texture.
Shells to hold more sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version of goulash?

Yes! Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.

How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Use a low-carb tomato sauce with no added sugar.

What’s the difference between goulash and chili mac?

Feature	Goulash	Chili Mac
Base	Tomato-based sauce	Chili-style sauce with beans
Meat	Ground beef	Ground beef
Pasta	Always included	Optional
Spices	Paprika, Italian seasoning	Chili powder, cumin

For more health tips on balanced eating, visit Healthline!

Simple Goulash Recipe with Hamburger – A Classic Comfort Dish

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