Goulash Using Tomato Soup Recipe

Goulash is one of those dishes that carries with it the nostalgia of hearty, comforting meals. Originating from Hungary, it has evolved into countless variations across the world. The beauty of goulash lies not just in its delicious flavor but also in its flexibility-there are endless ways to customize this dish, whether you prefer it with beef, pork, or a medley of vegetables.

One variation that has gained widespread popularity in the United States is the goulash made using tomato soup. This version simplifies the preparation process, offering a quick and satisfying dish that still packs all the flavor and richness we associate with goulash. In this recipe, we’ll explore the ease and flavors of a tomato-soup-based goulash, and how you can bring a delicious twist to this classic comfort food.

So, grab your apron, and let’s get ready to make a hearty, one-pot meal that will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas.

Making goulash with tomato soup is a fantastic shortcut to a delicious, flavorful dish that doesn’t take hours of simmering. The tomato soup serves as the base, adding richness, a slight tang, and a creamy texture to the dish. Paired with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a handful of other ingredients, you’ve got a meal that’s perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the cooking instructions, here’s what you’ll need to make this quick and easy goulash:

1 Lb Ground Beef

Lean ground beef works best, but you can opt for higher-fat cuts for more flavor. Some prefer using ground turkey or chicken as leaner alternatives.
1 Onion (diced)

Adds sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the savory flavors.
2-3 Cloves Garlic (minced)

For that aromatic kick that makes the dish feel cozy and homemade.
1 Can (10.5 Oz) Tomato Soup

The star ingredient of this recipe. The soup gives the goulash its creamy, tangy base and acts as a shortcut for the typical stewing process.
1 Can (14.5 Oz) Diced Tomatoes (drained)

These tomatoes provide chunks of texture and more tomato flavor.
2 Cups Elbow Macaroni

The pasta is a traditional goulash ingredient, soaking up the tomato soup’s sauce to become tender and flavorful.
1 Cup Beef Broth (or Water)

Adds moisture and helps the pasta cook to the right texture. You can also use chicken broth or vegetable broth for variation.
2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning

A classic mix of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which complements the richness of the beef and tomatoes.
1 Teaspoon Paprika

A touch of paprika adds a mild smokiness to the dish. You can use smoked paprika for a stronger flavor.
Salt And Pepper (to Taste)

Essential for seasoning the entire dish. You can always add more as needed while cooking.
1/2 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional)

For an extra layer of indulgence, melted cheese on top takes it from good to great.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients laid out, let’s get into the step-by-step instructions on how to whip up this delicious tomato-soup goulash:

Brown The Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté The Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma of garlic and onions sautéing in the beef fat is where the magic begins.
Add The Tomato Soup And Tomatoes

Pour in the can of tomato soup and the drained diced tomatoes. Stir to combine everything, allowing the tomato base to coat the beef and onions.
Pour In The Broth And Seasoning

Add the beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook The Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed a lot of the tomato-based sauce.
Optional Cheese Finish

If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top just before serving, letting it melt and become gooey. This step is optional but adds a rich, comforting layer.
Serve

Once everything is cooked, give it a final taste for seasoning adjustments, then serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role of each ingredient will elevate your goulash game. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef

The beef provides the necessary protein and is the dish’s central flavor. Lean beef is ideal for a more balanced taste, but using a fattier beef will give your goulash a richer, juicier bite.
Tomato Soup

Tomato soup acts as both a flavor base and a thickening agent. The richness and smooth consistency it provides are what make this version of goulash stand out from the traditional stewed version.
Elbow Macaroni

Traditional pasta in goulash, elbow macaroni has the perfect shape to absorb all the saucy goodness, making each bite just that much more satisfying.
Italian Seasoning & Paprika

These are key to giving goulash that deep, layered flavor. Italian seasoning infuses the dish with an herby, earthy backdrop, while paprika adds a subtle smokiness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your goulash game? Here are some expert tips:

Use A High-Quality Tomato Soup

The tomato soup is the foundation of the sauce, so choose one that’s rich and flavorful. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own homemade tomato sauce and use it as a base.
Brown The Beef Well

Don’t rush the browning process. Let the beef develop a deep, caramelized color-it adds extra flavor that makes a big difference in the final dish.
Don’t Overcook The Pasta

Pasta can easily turn mushy if cooked too long in the sauce. Keep an eye on it, and once it’s tender, remove the pot from heat immediately.
Customize The Cheese

While cheddar is a classic choice, try mozzarella for a more stringy, gooey texture, or Parmesan for a sharp, salty finish.
Spice It Up

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra kick.

Recipe Variations

As with most comfort food dishes, goulash is highly customizable. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Goulash

Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or skip the protein altogether and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a heartier texture.
Cheesy Goulash

If you can’t get enough cheese, add a full cup of shredded mozzarella to the mix for a gooey, cheesy goulash that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
Spicy Goulash

For a spicy twist, throw in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when cooking the beef. The heat will balance out the richness of the tomato soup.
Slow Cooker Goulash

You can adapt this recipe to a slow cooker by browning the beef and then throwing all the ingredients into the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours for a deeply flavorful version.

Final Words

This tomato soup goulash is the perfect meal for anyone looking for comfort and simplicity without sacrificing flavor. It combines the best parts of a traditional goulash with the convenience of pantry staples, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, there’s something deeply satisfying about digging into a bowl of this tomato-based goulash. With the right balance of savory beef, pasta, and tomato sauce, every bite is sure to bring a smile to your face.