Ground Beef Goulash
A hearty and comforting ground beef goulash with savory tomato broth, green peppers, mushrooms, and creamy sour cream—perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 (4 oz.) pkg. uncooked noodles ⓘ
- 1/2 c. water ⓘ
- 1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef broth ⓘ
- 2 1/2 c. tomato juice ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. celery salt ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/3 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 (4 oz.) can sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1 c. reduced-fat sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet; add noodles.
- Combine water, broth, tomato juice, salt, pepper, celery salt, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the beef, noodles, and vegetables in the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add green pepper; cover and cook until noodles are tender.
- Add mushrooms and sour cream; heat through but do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a bay leaf during cooking. If you're short on time, you can substitute the uncooked noodles with pre-cooked pasta or even use rice as an alternative. For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef, which will still provide great texture without the extra fat. Pairing this dish with a fresh salad can add a nice crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a mixed green salad. This dish also makes a great filling for stuffed peppers or can be enjoyed on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the goulash moist, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If the noodles seem dry, adding a bit of extra tomato juice can help restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Goulash contains roughly 165 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1499mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this goulash?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for lean ground beef, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with ground pork or a mix of meats for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
Can I make this goulash in advance?
Yes, this goulash can be made ahead of time! Simply prepare the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I add for extra veggies?
You can easily customize this goulash by adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions and garlic for optimal flavor and texture. These additions not only boost the nutritional value but also enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it even more satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).