Few meals can comfort quite like a steaming bowl of homemade goulash soup. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening, a busy weeknight, or a cozy family gathering, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every spoonful. With tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato broth, savory ground beef, and fresh vegetables, it’s a complete meal in one pot—hearty enough to fill you up, yet simple enough for everyday cooking.
This recipe is inspired by the traditional Hungarian goulash but adapted into an approachable American-style version that’s both budget-friendly and family-approved. It’s comfort food at its finest, packed with flavor, texture, and nostalgia.
The Story Behind Goulash
Hungarian Roots
Goulash, or gulyás, originated centuries ago in Hungary. Shepherds would prepare a rustic stew made with beef, onions, potatoes, and paprika, slow-cooked over open fires. This dish was hearty, practical, and designed to fuel hard work in the fields. Paprika became the signature spice of Hungarian cooking, giving goulash its distinct warmth and depth.
The American Adaptation
When Hungarian immigrants arrived in the United States, they brought goulash with them. Over time, the dish transformed into what many know today as American goulash or American Chop Suey. Instead of chunks of beef and potatoes, ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes became the foundation. Families embraced it as a budget-friendly, one-pot dinner that could stretch to feed many mouths.
Today, goulash soup with elbow macaroni is a household classic—rich in history yet endlessly versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create a hearty pot of goulash soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- 1 medium onion, diced – The base of savory flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced – Brings a touch of sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds depth and aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Tangy, juicy richness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Thickens and enriches the broth.
- 6 cups beef broth – Or chicken broth for a lighter taste.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked – The classic pasta for goulash.
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A balanced herb mix.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Brings warmth and depth.
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional) – For gentle heat.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains. If needed, drain excess fat to keep the soup light.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing them to soften and release flavor. This step builds the aromatic foundation of the soup.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Mix in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir thoroughly so the meat and vegetables absorb the tomato base.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Pour in beef broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni and frozen corn. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Goulash Soup
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy in the broth.
- Meal-prep trick – If making ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This keeps the broth from getting too starchy.
- Boost the vegetables – Add bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make it creamy – Stir in a splash of cream or add shredded cheese at the end.
- Adjust the spice – Add more chili flakes or hot sauce for heat, or leave them out for a mild family-friendly version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly – Made with affordable ingredients.
- Family-friendly – A mild, comforting dish that kids love.
- One-pot wonder – Less cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the broth.
- Garlic bread – Adds buttery crunch.
- Green salad – Lightens the meal with freshness.
- Pickles or sauerkraut – A tangy nod to Hungarian tradition.
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Style – Add beans, corn, cumin, and top with cheddar.
- Hungarian Style – Use beef chunks, potatoes, and double the paprika.
- Vegetarian Goulash Soup – Swap meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
- Cheesy Version – Stir in mozzarella or cheddar before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Best frozen without pasta for up to 2 months. Add pasta fresh when reheating.
- Reheat – Warm gently on the stovetop. Add broth if the soup thickens too much.
FAQs About Goulash Soup
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is classic, shells, rotini, or penne also work well.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then add everything except pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, stir in pasta 30 minutes before serving.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze it without pasta for the best texture. Add freshly cooked pasta after reheating.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Homemade Goulash Soup with Elbow Macaroni isn’t just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a reminder of home. With its rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and savory meat, it delivers both nourishment and nostalgia. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or serving a crowd, it’s a dish that warms hearts and fills bellies.
Once you try it, this goulash soup may just become a regular on your dinner table—one of those recipes your family asks for again and again.