Easy Goulash Recipe – Classic, Quick & Flavorful Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a classic comfort meal that’s both simple and satisfying, this easy goulash recipe is a perfect choice. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, this version of goulash delivers big flavor with minimal effort — ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

This easy goulash recipe features simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a delicious result that everyone will love. Whether you serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s a family-friendly dish that becomes an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Goulash Recipe

This easy goulash recipe is loved by home cooks because it’s:

• Quick to prepare

• Made with basic pantry ingredients

• Comforting and hearty

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

• Full of rich, savory flavor

It’s a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients for Easy Goulash

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp oil for cooking

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• Pasta, rice, or potatoes for serving

These ingredients come together to make a rich and satisfying goulash with classic flavors.

How to Make Easy Goulash (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil and add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the beef. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook another 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Seasonings

Stir in:

• Tomato sauce

• Diced tomatoes

• Paprika

• Oregano

• Salt and pepper

Mix well to combine. If you like a richer sauce, add beef broth or Worcestershire sauce.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce heat and let the goulash simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.

The aroma as it simmers will fill your kitchen with a comforting and savory scent.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot over:

• Egg noodles

• Cooked rice

• Mashed potatoes

• Buttered toast

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired.

This easy goulash recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or warm bread.

Tips for the Best Easy Goulash

✔ Brown the meat well for deeper flavor
✔ Add broth or water if sauce thickens too much
✔ Adjust paprika and seasoning to taste
✔ Let goulash rest before serving to enhance flavor

These simple tricks help elevate the dish and make every bite delicious.

Variations You Can Try

🍅 Hungarian Goulash Style: Add caraway seeds and paprika for authentic Hungarian flavor.
🍝 Goulash with Noodles: Stir in cooked egg noodles for a complete one-pot meal.
🥔 Vegetable Goulash: Add carrots, celery, or potatoes for more texture and nutrition.

This easy goulash recipe is versatile and customizable to suit your taste.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350–450 (varies with ingredients)

• Protein: ~20–25 g

• Fat: ~15–20 g

• Carbohydrates: ~25–35 g

It’s a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates — great for satisfying hunger and fueling your day.

Final Thoughts

This easy goulash recipe is a classic comfort food that’s both flavorful and simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers tender beef and rich tomato sauce in every bite.

Try it tonight and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will ask for again!