Pin A comforting, budget-friendly goulash featuring tender beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Perfect for an easy, nostalgic family meal.
I remember my grandmother making goulash on chilly evenings. The aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone looked forward to gathering around the table. It’s still a favorite in my home today.
Ingredients
- Beef stew meat or ground turkey: 500 g (1.1 lbs)
- Large onion: Finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: Minced (2)
- Green bell pepper: Diced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Short pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini): 250 g (8 oz)
- Vegetable oil or olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Beef or chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Dried basil: 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp or to taste
- Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef or turkey and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
- Cook Garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Spices and Tomato Paste:
- Mix in tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Simmer, then cover and cook 15 minutes for turkey or 25 for beef.
- Add Pasta:
- Add pasta, stir, cover, and cook 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pin My kids always request extra parsley on top, and they love helping stir in the pasta at the end. This dish never fails to bring everyone together for a warm, filling dinner.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
This goulash contains wheat from the pasta. Some broths may have soy. Always check labels for any specific allergens before preparing.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420. Total Fat: 10 g. Carbohydrates: 49 g. Protein: 32 g
Pin This goulash comes together quickly, making it a great weeknight solution. Enjoy every flavorful bite and the simplicity of comfort food.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, offering a lighter texture and flavor while maintaining the dish’s comforting qualities.
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Short pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini is ideal as it holds the sauce well and cooks evenly within the goulash.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Adding chili powder or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the heat without overpowering the dish.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Absolutely, the flavors deepen when reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
- → What are some suitable garnishes?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, and a sprinkle of grated cheese can provide extra richness just before serving.