4-Ingredient Quick & Easy Goulash

Name: 4-Ingredient Quick & Easy Goulash
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce); 2 cups beef broth (or water)

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This 4-Ingredient Quick & Easy Goulash is a lifesaver when you need a hearty and satisfying meal without the hassle. Made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, elbow macaroni, marinara sauce, and broth, it’s a comforting dish that’s ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.

Budget-Friendly: Uses just four basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand.

Customizable: Easy to adapt with seasonings, toppings, or a protein swap.

Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors of this goulash.

One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, making life so much easier!

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)

2 cups beef broth (or water)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, if necessary.

Add Ingredients: Stir in the elbow macaroni, marinara sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Serve: Remove from heat, let the dish rest for a minute, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes approximately 4 hearty servings.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Goulash: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before serving.

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Extra Veggies: Toss in diced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.

Seasoning Boost: Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.

Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook the dish just until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but avoid overcooking.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce and broth are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to add extra protein?

You can add a can of drained beans, cooked lentils, or even diced cooked chicken for an extra protein boost.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Store in portions for easy reheating on busy days.

Conclusion

This 4-ingredient quick and easy goulash recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who wants a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this goulash will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try—I think you’ll love it as much as I do.

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