Can I freeze beef goulash?

Absolutely! This is one of my top meal planning hacks. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers (leave some room for expansion). It keeps beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with a splash of broth to revive that saucy magic. Perfect for nights when even 30 minutes feels too long!

What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?

No elbows? No problem! Small shells, rotini, or even penne work great—just stick to similar-sized pasta so it cooks evenly. My cousin uses whole wheat macaroni for extra fiber (grandma would raise an eyebrow, but it’s tasty!). Avoid long noodles like spaghetti—they turn this cozy dish into a wrestling match!

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

In an airtight container, your cheesy masterpiece stays fresh for 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen—those tomatoes and spices keep mingling like guests at a great party! Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Microwave works too—just stir halfway to avoid "lava pockets" (learned that one the hard way!).

Can I make this beef goulash ahead?

You’re speaking my prep-day language! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies up to 2 days ahead—store them together in the fridge. When ready to cook, just add the remaining ingredients and simmer. Want fully prepped? Assemble everything except the cheese, then refrigerate for 24 hours. Add 5 extra minutes to the simmer time since it’s starting cold—easy peasy!

Easy 30-Minute Beef Goulash That Melts in Your Mouth

Name: Beef Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Beef Goulash

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A hearty one-pot beef and macaroni dinner in rich tomato sauce with cheesy comfort, perfect for busy nights.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
Stir in macaroni, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Top with shredded cheese and let melt before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
This dish is great for meal planning and reheats well.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/easy-beef-goulash-recipe-one-pot-dinner/