How To Make Ground Beef Goulash – A Simple And Tasty Dish!

Indulge in the warm and savory flavors of ground beef goulash, a hearty dish that will tantalize your taste buds. With its tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich sauce, this classic comfort food is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a family gathering. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make ground beef goulash that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the carrots and celery and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes more.

3. Season the Beef

Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to develop the flavors.

4. Add the Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Goulash

Reduce heat to low and simmer the goulash for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a more flavorful dish. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef will become.

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If desired, you can thicken the goulash sauce by making a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering goulash until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the ground beef goulash hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread.

Variations

• Vegetarian Goulash: Omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Goulash: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Beer Goulash: Replace some of the beef broth with a dark lager or stout for a rich and flavorful variation.
• Slow Cooker Goulash: Brown the ground beef in a skillet and then transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use high-quality ground beef, such as 80/20 or 90/10.
• Don’t skip browning the ground beef. This step develops the flavor and creates a savory base for the goulash.
• If you don’t have diced tomatoes, you can use a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
• Add other vegetables to your liking, such as potatoes, green beans, or peas.
• Serve the goulash with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra layer of richness.

The Comfort Food Classic

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold night or a hearty dish to feed your family, ground beef goulash is a sure-fire winner. Its tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich sauce will warm your soul and leave you feeling satisfied. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps above, and enjoy the deliciousness of this classic comfort food.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I make ground beef goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make ground beef goulash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the goulash over medium heat until warmed through before serving.

2. Can I freeze ground beef goulash?

Yes, you can freeze ground beef goulash for up to 3 months. Allow the goulash to cool completely before freezing it in airtight containers. Thaw the goulash overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.

3. What can I serve with ground beef goulash?

Ground beef goulash can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, egg noodles, crusty bread, or a side salad.