Name: Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds of ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cans (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Pioneer Woman’s Goulash is a delicious, comforting dish that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce flavored with spices. This simple, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and is guaranteed to satisfy the whole family. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this classic American goulash will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

What is Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef?

Pioneer Woman’s Goulash is a take on the American version of goulash, which differs from the Hungarian version. This dish is made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, simmered together in a seasoned tomato sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and tangy tomato sauce creates a dish that’s comforting and filling.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

One-Pot Meal: Everything is cooked in one pot, making cleanup easy.
Hearty and Filling: The combination of beef, pasta, and sauce makes this a satisfying meal.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for feeding the whole family and is sure to be a hit with kids.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in under an hour.
Perfect for Leftovers: Goulash tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prepping or leftovers.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef

2 pounds of ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
2 cans (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the goulash.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
Grater: If you’re topping the goulash with cheese.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef

Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions to the pot with the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, basil, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Cheese (Optional): If you like, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving, allowing it to melt into the goulash for added creaminess.
Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman’s Goulash

This hearty goulash pairs well with a variety of sides:

Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread or buttered toast complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the goulash.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Pickles or Cucumber Salad: The tangy crunch of pickles or a cucumber salad is a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Goulash

Follow these tips to make sure your goulash turns out perfectly:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta for doneness around the 12-minute mark. You want it tender but not mushy.
Adjust the Consistency: If the goulash becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh. Paprika and Italian seasoning are key to enhancing the overall taste.
Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is a popular option, you can use mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Goulash

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by trying different variations:

Turkey Goulash: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner version.
Spicy Goulash: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Vegetable Goulash: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in extra cheese, or top the goulash with a cheese blend and bake in the oven for a casserole-like finish.

Storing Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef: Best Practices

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate: Store the goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Goulash With Ground Beef: Best Practices

To reheat your leftover goulash:

Stovetop Method: Reheat the goulash over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Microwave Method: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta in goulash?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta in goulash. While elbow macaroni is traditional, other short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work just as well. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different shapes may require slightly more or less time to cook.

How do I make goulash less soupy?

To make goulash less soupy, reduce the amount of broth you add, or let the dish simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Yes, goulash freezes well. Let the goulash cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed to restore the texture.

What are good toppings for goulash?

Goulash can be topped with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor. These toppings enhance the dish’s richness and add a fresh or creamy touch.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Goulash is a simple, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With its savory beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week, this goulash is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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