Goulash Soup – tastykitchenjoy

Goulash Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul. This hearty meal combines rich flavors with tender ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night with friends. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and macaroni, this soup is both satisfying and delicious. Its unique blend of spices elevates the taste, ensuring every bowl is full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful soup ready in no time.
Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef and macaroni makes for a fulfilling meal that satisfies hunger.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Goulash Soup by adding your favorite vegetables or beans for extra nutrition.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavor of this soup, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make your Goulash Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large stock pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large stock pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all the ingredients together without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing in those flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

2 pounds ground chuck
1 large onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth and Sauces

8 cups beef broth
1 (28-ounce) can Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes
1 (29-ounce) can Red Gold Tomato Sauce
1 (6-ounce) can Red Gold Tomato Paste

For the Veggies

1 (15.25-ounce) can whole kernel corn (drained)

For Seasoning

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Optional Topping

Shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

How to Make Goulash Soup

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef and Onions

In a large stock pot, cook the ground chuck with the chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease before returning the mixture to heat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

Add minced garlic to the pot and stir constantly for 1 minute. Then pour in the beef broth and mix well.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, drained corn, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Once boiling, add uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir well and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes or until macaroni reaches your desired tenderness.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Taste your Goulash Soup; add additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Goulash Soup! Perfect for warming up on chilly days or serving at gatherings.

How to Serve Goulash Soup

Goulash soup is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. The following serving suggestions will help you create a delightful dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

Serve the soup alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Topped with Cheese

Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy richness.

With Fresh Herbs

Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

A light green salad can balance the heartiness of the soup. Consider a simple vinaigrette to enhance the meal.

In Individual Bowls

For special occasions, serve goulash soup in individual bowls or ramekins for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Goulash Soup

To make your goulash soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips to enhance its flavor and texture.

Use Quality Beef Broth: A rich, homemade beef broth elevates the overall taste. If using store-bought, choose low-sodium options for better control over saltiness.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings like paprika and salt to suit your preference. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for elbow macaroni or any small pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the soup well.
Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances its depth of flavor. Just be careful not to overcook the pasta!

Best Side Dishes for Goulash Soup

Pairing side dishes with goulash soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious broth while adding extra flavor.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, croutons, and parmesan cheese provides a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of goulash soup.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and brightness, making it an excellent side that contrasts with the warm soup.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory goulash soup, adding a delightful sweetness to each bite.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables can serve as a hearty side that complements the flavors of goulash.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of soup.
Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly allows for freshness without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Goulash Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Using low-quality beef – Choose high-quality ground chuck for a richer flavor and better texture in your Goulash Soup.
Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip the paprika and Worcestershire sauce; they add depth. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Overcooking the macaroni – Keep an eye on the macaroni to prevent it from becoming mushy. Cook just until tender, usually around 10 minutes.
Not letting it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavors. Be patient and let it bubble gently before serving.
Skipping optional toppings – Consider adding shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess. Toppings can elevate your Goulash Soup experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Goulash Soup in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Goulash Soup

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Goulash Soup

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop – Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Goulash Soup that might help you make this dish even better.

What is Goulash Soup?

Goulash Soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Can I make Goulash Soup ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing it a day in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly in the fridge.

Is there a vegetarian version of Goulash Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Goulash Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or swap out the elbow macaroni for another pasta type based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Goulash Soup is not only filling but also versatile. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different toppings or veggies to make this recipe your own!