Goulash Recipes With Ground Beef

Introduction

Goulash, a hearty and comforting stew, boasts a rich history rooted in Central Europe. While traditionally made with chunks of beef, “goulash recipes with ground beef” offer a quicker and more accessible alternative for home cooks. This adaptation maintains the dish’s signature flavors while streamlining the preparation process, making it a popular choice for weeknight meals and family gatherings.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for a delicious ground beef goulash include:

Ground Beef: Typically, 80/20 ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and leanness. Leaner ground beef can be used, but a small amount of oil might be needed for sauting.
Onion: Yellow or white onions form the aromatic base of the dish.
Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness and color. Red or green bell peppers are commonly used, or a combination of both.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, or tomato sauce contribute to the rich, tomato-based sauce.
Beef Broth: Provides the liquid for the stew and enhances the beefy flavor.
Paprika: A crucial ingredient for goulash, paprika imparts its distinctive color and flavor. Sweet paprika is typically used, but smoked or hot paprika can be added for extra depth.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic pungency.
Spices & Herbs: Common additions include bay leaf, caraway seeds (optional, for a more authentic Hungarian flavor), salt, pepper, and sometimes a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Elbow Macaroni (Optional): Adds substance and transforms the dish into a complete meal.
Oil: For sauting vegetables and browning the ground beef. Olive oil or vegetable oil works well.

Preparation Steps

Prior to cooking, several steps will ensure a flavorful and efficient cooking process:

Vegetable Preparation: Dice the onion, bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Consistent sizes ensure even cooking.
Ground Beef Preparation: Ensure the ground beef is thawed completely. Patting it dry with paper towels before browning can help it brown more effectively.
Spice Blending: Pre-measuring and combining the spices (paprika, salt, pepper, etc.) allows for easy addition during cooking and ensures even distribution of flavor.
Tomato Selection: Consider draining excess liquid from canned diced tomatoes to prevent a watery goulash.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious and satisfying ground beef goulash:

Browning the Ground Beef: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Sauting Aromatics: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Adding Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes/tomato sauce), beef broth, paprika, bay leaf, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmering the Goulash: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. Longer simmering times enhance the depth of flavor.
Adding Pasta (Optional): If adding elbow macaroni, stir it into the goulash during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Ensure the pasta is cooked through but still slightly firm (al dente). Add more broth if needed to prevent the goulash from becoming too thick.
Adjusting Seasoning: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika to your preference. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Removing Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef goulash is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

Traditional Toppings: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is a classic topping.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley or chopped green onions add a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce, or with mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.
Other options A side salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the goulash.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To elevate your goulash and avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t overcrowd the pot: Brown the ground beef in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
Use quality paprika: Fresh, high-quality paprika makes a significant difference in the flavor and color of the goulash.
Simmer, don’t boil: Simmering allows the flavors to meld and develop without making the meat tough.
Adjust the liquid: Monitor the liquid level during simmering and add more broth if needed to prevent the goulash from becoming too dry.
Salt correctly: Properly salting the goulash is critical to balancing the flavors and enhancing the depth.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering “goulash recipes with ground beef” unlocks a world of comforting flavors and easy meal options. Its versatility allows for endless customization based on personal preferences and available ingredients. This flavorful and hearty dish embodies both cultural tradition and practical cooking, making it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Ready to create your own unforgettable goulash? Try this recipe at home and discover a delightful culinary experience. For more cooking guides and inspiration, visit foodrecipestory.com.