Description
This hearty Goulash with Beef or Turkey is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender meat, flavorful tomato-based sauce, and short pasta. Infused with aromatic herbs and spices, it’s perfect for a family dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1.1 lbs beef stew meat or ground turkey
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Tomato & Seasonings
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
Pasta & Liquids
- 8 oz short pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
Oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat or ground turkey and brown it on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes to develop rich flavor and color.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the pot. Cook them together with the meat until the vegetables soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Season and Combine: Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Stir thoroughly so the meat and vegetables are well coated with the spices and tomato paste.
- Simmer with Liquids: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and the beef or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes if using turkey or 25 minutes if using beef, until the meat is tender.
- Cook Pasta in Sauce: Add the short pasta to the pot, stir well to combine, cover, and continue to simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed into the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- Choose short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini as they hold the sauce well.
- If you prefer more spice, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 37 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Keywords: Goulash, Beef Goulash, Turkey Goulash, One-Pot Meal, Comfort Food, Tomato Pasta, Hearty Dinner
