Save A comforting, budget-friendly goulash featuring tender beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Perfect for an easy, nostalgic family meal.
The first time I made this goulash, my kids couldn't wait to dig in. The blend of savory protein, pasta, and veggies instantly made it a weeknight favorite in our house.
Ingredients
- Protein: 500 g (1.1 lbs) beef stew meat or ground turkey
- Vegetables: 1 large onion, finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 green bell pepper, diced, 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Pantry: 250 g (8 oz) short pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini), 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil), 500 ml (2 cups) beef or chicken broth, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp chili powder (for heat), Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef (or turkey) and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the onion and bell pepper, sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings:
- Add tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Simmer:
- Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook for 15 minutes (turkey) or 25 minutes (beef, until tender).
- Cook Pasta:
- Add the pasta, stir, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Save Sharing this goulash around our old kitchen table always brings out the stories from my childhood. My family loves sprinkling fresh parsley and cheese on top for that extra coziness.
Notes
For extra richness, add 1/2 cup grated cheese before serving. Substitute ground beef or pork for the protein if preferred. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Add a pinch of caraway seeds for a more traditional flavor.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 49 g, Protein 32 g
Save This hearty goulash is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful with family and friends.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and cooks faster, absorbing the sauce flavors perfectly.
- → What pasta types work best?
Short pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini hold the sauce nicely and cook evenly within the dish.
- → How do I add more heat to the dish?
Incorporate chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for a spicy kick.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, using oil instead of butter and skipping cheese toppings keeps it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
- → What is the best way to thicken the sauce?
Simmering uncovered towards the end helps reduce excess liquid, making the sauce thicker and more flavorful.