How To Make Quick Goulash: A 15-minute Meal That Will Satisfy Your Cravings

Indulge in the hearty flavors of a classic goulash without sacrificing time. This quick and easy recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious and comforting meal in just a fraction of the traditional cooking time.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to bloom.

4. Create the Broth: Pour in the beef broth and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the broth. Cook according to the package instructions, or until tender.

6. Thicken the Goulash (Optional): For a thicker goulash, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering goulash and cook until thickened.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the quick goulash into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for a Perfect Goulash:

• Use a lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth.
• Add diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• If you don’t have egg noodles, use any other short pasta like penne or shells.
• Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences for a personalized dish.

Variations to Try:

• Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Goulash: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans for a meatless version.
• Creamy Goulash: Stir in a cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a creamy and decadent twist.

The Perfect Comfort Food for Busy Nights

This quick goulash is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the goulash up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Q: What can I serve with goulash?
A: Goulash pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A side salad or pickled vegetables can also add freshness.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any short pasta such as penne, shells, or macaroni. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.