Nothing satisfies hungry appetites faster than a classic skillet of One Pan Goulash. Made with savory browned ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, tender elbow macaroni, and aromatic garlic and onions in a rich tomato sauce, this old-fashioned comfort dinner cooks entirely in one skillet in just 35 minutes, keeping cleanup practically nonexistent.
If you love cozy one-pot dinners, be sure to also check out our popular Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup for another easy comfort meal.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Goulash
- Effortless Preparation: Simple everyday ingredients and straightforward steps mean dinner is ready with minimal kitchen fuss.
- Deep, Comforting Flavor: Wholesome seasonings, tender protein, and bubbling savory broth bring warmth to cold evenings.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld in the refrigerator.
Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
- 1 pound ground beef: Selected for freshness, balanced seasoning, and rich texture.
- 4 slices turkey bacon: Selected for freshness, balanced seasoning, and rich texture.
- 1 onion, chopped: Selected for freshness, balanced seasoning, and rich texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Selected for freshness, balanced seasoning, and rich texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Selected for freshness, balanced seasoning, and rich texture.
Easy Swaps for Dietary Preferences
- Protein Variations: Swap beef for ground turkey, or use plant-based meat crumbles.
- Broth Options: Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth lets you control sodium levels.
- Extra Veggies: Boost nutritional value by tossing in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or fresh spinach.
How to Make One Pan Goulash
Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
Step 5: Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
Step 7: Return the turkey bacon to the skillet, mixing well to combine.
Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Brown meats thoroughly first to build rich caramelized fond at the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer over gentle heat so aromatics and spices infuse completely into the broth.
- Taste before serving and adjust salt, freshly ground black pepper, or fresh herbs as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight glass containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days for quick, satisfying lunches.
Best Reheating Method
Warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a small splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
One Pan Goulash
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- Return the turkey bacon to the skillet, mixing well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to boil the macaroni separately?
No! The macaroni cooks right in the simmering broth and tomato sauce, soaking up maximum flavor while thickening the dish naturally.
Can I add cheddar cheese to make it cheesy goulash?
Yes! Stir in 1 to 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese right before serving for a luscious cheesy finish.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Rotini, shells, or cavatappi work just as well as traditional elbow macaroni. Simply monitor cooking time according to the pasta box.
Can this goulash be frozen for future meals?
Yes, goulash freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a splash of broth.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Goulash is pure comfort in a bowl. Simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, it is guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your family dinner rotation.
