Pin A comforting, budget-friendly goulash featuring tender beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Perfect for an easy, nostalgic family meal.
My first memory of making goulash was for my kids on a chilly evening when I wanted a filling dinner that reminded me of my own childhood. Everyone loved how the flavors came together so quickly and always ask for seconds.
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, ½ tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Optional: ½ tsp chili powder (for heat), Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown Protein:
- 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 5–7 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.
- Season:
- Add tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Simmer:
- Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15 minutes (for turkey) or 25 minutes (for beef, until tender).
- Add Pasta:
- Add the pasta. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.
- Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pin This cozy goulash is a staple at our family table, especially during busy school nights. It is easy to customize and brings everyone together with its comforting flavor.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta). May contain soy if using certain broths. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 49 g, Protein: 32 g per serving
Pin Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Enjoy leftovers reheated for a quick, comforting meal the next day.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey or beef can be used interchangeably, adjusting cooking times slightly for tenderness.
- → What pasta works best in this dish?
Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini hold the sauce well and cook evenly in the simmering pot.
- → How can I add a bit of heat?
A small pinch of chili powder can be stirred in with the spices to add gentle warmth without overwhelming flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Substituting regular pasta with gluten-free varieties allows a gluten-free version while maintaining texture.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and a touch of color, while a grated cheese topping adds richness if desired.