Creamy Goulash-Style Pasta

Creamy Goulash-Style Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings a rich, hearty dish to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Combining tender ground beef, savory spices, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re craving something warm and satisfying or a new twist on traditional pasta, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into why this creamy, delicious pasta deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

Top Reasons to Make Creamy Goulash-Style Pasta

• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 45 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with most ingredients cooked in a single skillet.
• Flavor-Packed: The paprika and oregano bring smoky, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of sour cream and cheddar cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite.
• Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes or additional veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 oz Pasta: Choose elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini for perfect sauce clinging.
• 1 lb Ground Beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich base flavor. Opt for lean ground beef for less fat.
• 1 Medium Onion, Chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Infuses aromatic warmth essential for balanced flavor.
• 1 Bell Pepper, Diced: Adds color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness.
• 1 Can (14 oz) Diced Tomatoes, Undrained: Brings acidity and juiciness to the sauce.
• 1 Cup Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and helps create the sauce base.
• 2 tsp Paprika: The star spice that defines the goulash profile with smoky richness.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Adds an earthy herbal note.
• 1/2 Cup Sour Cream: For creamy tang and smooth texture.
• 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the pasta to add gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For sautéing and bringing everything together.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Essential for browning the beef and cooking the sauce.
• Medium Pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Colander: To drain pasta efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise seasoning and ingredient portions.

Creamy Goulash-Style Pasta, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen 8 oz pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserving a little pasta water can help adjust sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove excess fat if desired.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the beef. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in 2 teaspoons paprika and 1 teaspoon dried oregano, allowing the spices to bloom for a minute. Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and 1 cup beef broth. Simmer for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Sour Cream

Lower the heat and stir in 1/2 cup sour cream and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the creamy goulash-style pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if you like. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

For another comforting pasta option, consider trying my Baked Spaghetti Casserole Supreme or the flavorful Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for a change of pace.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
• Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber content.
• Reduce cheese amount or use a lower-fat variety to cut saturated fat.
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and tangy flavor.

Cook’s Notes

• For maximum flavor, don’t skip the paprika – it’s key to the goulash-style taste.
• Use freshly minced garlic instead of pre-minced for a brighter aroma.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the tomato and broth mixture to simmer longer before adding the dairy.
• This recipe reheats well but may thicken; add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to loosen the sauce.
• Try topping with fresh parsley or chives for a fresh finish.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce feels dry or thick, stir in a little beef broth, milk, or water to restore creaminess.

This dish also freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well if you prefer a lighter option. You can also experiment with plant-based ground “meats” for a vegetarian-friendly version.

What pasta shape is best for this recipe?

Classic elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini are ideal because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce nicely, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute sour cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese to keep the creaminess without dairy.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and cook the pasta separately a day in advance. Combine and reheat before serving for a quick meal.

Explore More

• Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Supreme – A luxurious, cheesy pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce.
• Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta – A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic pasta, packed with garlic and butter goodness.
• Baked Spaghetti Casserole Supreme – A comforting baked pasta layered with cheese and sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Final Bite

Creamy Goulash-Style Pasta is a timeless, satisfying meal that combines the best of rich, hearty flavors with creamy comfort. Its straightforward steps and adaptable ingredients make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a cozy dish to enjoy solo, this recipe delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and whip up this delicious pasta that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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