Go Back
–+ servings
Bowl of classic goulash with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and rich tomato sauce, garnished with herbs, served with a side drink on a light background.

Hearty Stovetop Goulash

A comforting, meaty goulash made quickly on the stovetop with simple pantry ingredients for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing onions
  • 1 large yellow onion diced (adds sweetness and depth)
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef substitute ground turkey if desired
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (for aromatic flavor)
  • 3 cups water to simmer sauce
  • 2 15 ounce cans tomato sauce (rich base for sauce)
  • 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (adds texture)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce enhances savory flavor
  • 2 tablespoons dried Italian herb seasoning blend of basil, oregano, thyme
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt or adjust to taste
  • 3 bay leaves for aromatic depth
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni absorbs sauce while cooking

Equipment

  • 1 Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot Holds heat evenly and provides enough space to stir without splashing. Any large heavy pot works if a Dutch oven isn't available.
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring ingredients without scratching the pot.
  • 1 set Measuring Cups and Spoons To measure liquids, pasta, and seasonings accurately.
  • 1 Knife and cutting board For chopping onions and mincing garlic safely.

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and break it apart while cooking until fully browned, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Italian herb seasoning, seasoned salt, and bay leaves. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer over medium heat for 11–13 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove from heat, discard bay leaves, and serve hot. finish

Nutrition

Serving: 300gCalories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 27gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 940mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 5gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 20mg

Notes

This quick goulash fills your kitchen with a warm, savory aroma and makes the perfect weeknight comfort meal for the whole family.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!