Save to Pinterest A comforting, budget, friendly goulash featuring tender beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Perfect for an easy, nostalgic family meal.
I first made this nostalgic goulash for my kids during a chilly weekend. The rich tomato sauce and tender meat always bring back family memories and make weeknights feel special.
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 the Meat,
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium high heat. Add beef or turkey and brown on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables,
- Add 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 well to coat 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).
- Cook Pasta,
- Add pasta. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.
- Taste and Serve,
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest This goulash is always a favorite at our family table especially when everyone craves comfort food. Kids love the hearty flavors and everyone helps themselves to seconds.
Required Tools
All you need for this recipe is a large pot or Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, a chef's knife, and a cutting board.
Allergen Information
This dish contains wheat from the pasta and may contain soy depending on the broth used. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 49 g, Protein: 32 g
Save to Pinterest Serve your goulash hot and let everyone garnish their own bowls with fresh parsley. It's a heartwarming meal perfect for cozy nights.
Common Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and cooks slightly faster, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- → What pasta types suit this dish best?
Short pastas like elbow macaroni or rotini absorb the sauce nicely and maintain texture through simmering.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Add chili powder or fresh peppers for heat, or omit them for a milder profile while keeping aromatic spices intact.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary restrictions without altering the dish’s essence.
- → What are good garnishes to enhance flavor?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, and a sprinkle of grated cheese can add richness just before serving.