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Goulash with Beef and Turkey

Featured in: Lazy Day Comforts

This hearty goulash features tender beef or ground turkey simmered gently with tomatoes, garlic, bell peppers, and a blend of traditional spices like paprika and oregano. Short pasta is added toward the end to create a rich, satisfying stew that warms the soul. The dish is easy to prepare, coming together in about 50 minutes, and offers a nostalgic taste perfect for family dinners. Optional chili powder adds a subtle heat while fresh parsley lends brightness at serving. This comforting, budget-friendly meal can be customized with different proteins or gluten-free pasta as needed.

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Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:47:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of goulash with beef and pasta, garnished with fresh parsley, looks delicious. Pin It
Steaming bowl of goulash with beef and pasta, garnished with fresh parsley, looks delicious. | dudesnack.com

A comforting, budget-friendly goulash featuring tender beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Perfect for an easy, nostalgic family meal.

This goulash reminds me of family get-togethers in our cozy kitchen where everyone came together for hearty dishes. Simmering the ingredients fills the house with delicious aromas that always take me back to childhood comfort food moments.

Ingredients

  • Beef stew meat or ground turkey: 500 g (1.1 lbs)
  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Green bell pepper: 1, diced
  • Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz)
  • Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
  • Short pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini): 250 g (8 oz)
  • Vegetable oil or olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Beef or chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups)
  • Paprika: 1 tsp
  • Dried oregano: 1 tsp
  • Dried basil: 1 tsp
  • Ground black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
  • Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp
  • Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped, for garnish

Instructions

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Brown protein:
In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef or turkey and brown all sides, about 5 minutes.
Add vegetables:
Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
Garlic:
Stir in garlic, cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Spices and tomato paste:
Add tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt and pepper. Stir to coat evenly.
Add liquids:
Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Simmer and cover: 15 minutes for turkey or 25 minutes for beef.
Pasta:
Add pasta, stir, cover, and cook 10 minutes, stirring sometimes, until pasta is done and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Finish:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve hot.
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Savory goulash with tender beef or turkey, pasta, and rich tomato broth. Pin It
Savory goulash with tender beef or turkey, pasta, and rich tomato broth. | dudesnack.com
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My kids always love gathering around the table for this simple pasta goulash, especially when everyone can pick their own protein. It has become a quick weeknight favorite that feels just right for our busy family evenings.

Required Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 420, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 49 g, Protein: 32 g

Notes

Add ½ cup cheese for extra richness. Try ground pork as another tasty protein, or a pinch of caraway for old-school flavor.

Close-up of a rustic goulash recipe, highlighting juicy meat, veggies, and pasta. Pin It
Close-up of a rustic goulash recipe, highlighting juicy meat, veggies, and pasta. | dudesnack.com
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This goulash comes together easily and tastes even better the next day. Enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side salad.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey or stew meat can replace beef, offering a lighter yet flavorful alternative.

→ What pasta type works best in this dish?

Short pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini hold the sauce well and cook evenly within the stew.

→ How do I add spice to this dish?

Including chili powder adds gentle heat, but adjust quantity to suit your taste preferences.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Simply swap regular pasta with a gluten-free alternative to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, flavors deepen when reheated, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.

Goulash with Beef and Turkey

Comforting goulash simmered with tender meat, tomatoes, spices, and pasta for an easy wholesome meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
35 minutes
Overall Time
50 minutes
Created by Jake Anderson

Recipe Category Lazy Day Comforts

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Central European/American

Output 4 Portion Size

Diet Preferences Made Without Dairy

What You'll Need

Protein

01 1.1 lbs beef stew meat or ground turkey

Vegetables

01 1 large onion, finely chopped
02 2 garlic cloves, minced
03 1 green bell pepper, diced
04 14 oz can diced tomatoes
05 2 tbsp tomato paste

Pantry

01 8 oz short pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
02 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
03 2 cups beef or chicken broth
04 1 tsp paprika
05 1 tsp dried oregano
06 1 tsp dried basil
07 ½ tsp ground black pepper
08 1 tsp salt, or to taste

Optional

01 ½ tsp chili powder
02 Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make It

Step 01

Brown the Meat: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef or turkey and brown on all sides, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 02

Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the pot; sauté for 3 minutes until softened.

Step 03

Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 04

Incorporate Spices and Tomato Paste: Mix in tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper; stir thoroughly to coat meat and vegetables.

Step 05

Simmer with Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Bring mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15 minutes if using turkey or 25 minutes if using beef, until meat is tender.

Step 06

Cook Pasta: Add pasta to the pot and stir well. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 07

Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Gear Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Details

Always review all ingredients for allergens before starting. Check with a health specialist if uncertain.
  • Contains wheat from pasta.
  • Broth may contain soy; verify ingredients.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Nutrition info is for guidance and isn't a substitute for professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 420
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Proteins: 32 g