Hearty Beef Goulash Soup with Macaroni

Hearty Beef Goulash Soup with Macaroni

Introduction

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like a warm bowl of goulash.

Combining tender beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based broth, this Beef Goulash Soup is a timeless classic.

Originating from Eastern European culinary traditions, goulash has been adapted worldwide into countless variations.

This version is a cross between traditional Hungarian goulash and American-style beef and macaroni, creating a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ideal for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this goulash is easy to prepare and full of robust flavors.

It’s a one-pot wonder that offers the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables.

Whether served as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread and a side salad, this goulash will quickly become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will leave your kitchen smelling incredible and your heart full.

Ingredients

For the Goulash Soup:

1 lb (450 g) of ground beef (or diced beef for a chunkier texture)

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni

1 can (14 oz/400 g) of diced tomatoes, with juice

1 can (6 oz/170 g) of tomato paste

4 cups of beef broth (or water with bouillon cubes)

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 bay leaf

Optional Toppings:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Shredded cheddar cheese

A dollop of sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma.
2. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Add the bay leaf to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

1. Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked macaroni.
2. Cook the pasta directly in the soup for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. Stir frequently to ensure the macaroni doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Adjust and Garnish

1. Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
2. Ladle the goulash soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

Conclusion

This Beef Goulash Soup with Macaroni is the epitome of a hearty, comforting meal.

It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you’re simply craving something warm and flavorful.

The tender beef, rich tomato base, and al dente macaroni create a symphony of textures and tastes that make every spoonful satisfying.

The recipe is also wonderfully versatile.

You can add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition, or use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.

Leftovers store beautifully and taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.