Hearty Homemade Goulash Soup with Elbow Macaroni

Few things warm the heart and soul quite like a big bowl of homemade soup. Whether it’s served on a chilly evening, after a long day, or during a cozy family weekend, soup has an unmatched ability to comfort and nourish. One of the most beloved versions across American kitchens is goulash soup with elbow macaroni—a hearty, filling, and flavor-packed dish that brings people to the table with smiles.

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Hungarian goulash but adapts it into an American-style soup that’s both budget-friendly and family-approved. With ground beef, fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a tomato-rich broth, it’s a complete one-pot meal. Best of all, it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight, yet satisfying enough to serve to guests.

The Story Behind Goulash

The origins of goulash trace back centuries to Hungary, where it was created as a rustic stew prepared by shepherds. Traditional Hungarian goulash is rich with chunks of beef, onions, potatoes, and the country’s signature spice—paprika. Over time, immigrants brought the dish to the United States, where it evolved into new versions that fit local tastes and ingredients.

In American kitchens, goulash often leans more toward a comforting pasta soup, featuring ground meat, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni. Some families call it American Chop Suey, others simply beef and macaroni soup. Whatever the name, it has become a beloved classic—simple, affordable, and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this goulash soup so hearty and delicious:

1 lb (450g) ground beef – Or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

1 medium onion, diced – The foundation of savory flavor.

2 medium carrots, sliced – Adds sweetness and balance.

2 celery stalks, diced – Brings depth and a subtle earthiness.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor.

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Juicy and tangy base.

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Adds body to the broth.

6 cups beef broth – Or use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.

1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked – The classic pasta choice.

1 cup frozen corn (optional) – For sweetness and texture.

1 tsp Italian seasoning – A balanced herb blend.

1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds warmth and depth.

½ tsp chili flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick of heat.

Salt and black pepper – To taste.

2 tbsp olive oil – For cooking.

Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed—this keeps the broth light and flavorful.

2. Add the Aromatics

Stir in onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness. This step builds the soup’s rich flavor base.

3. Incorporate Tomatoes

Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well, ensuring the meat and vegetables are coated in the tomato mixture. This gives the soup its signature tangy depth.

4. Season and Simmer

Pour in beef broth, then add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni and frozen corn. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente).

6. Finish and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Elbow macaroni should be tender but not mushy. Stop cooking just as it reaches al dente.

Add Pasta Separately (Meal Prep Trick) – If you plan to save leftovers, consider boiling the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much broth overnight.

Boost the Veggies – Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Make It Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese before serving for a rich twist.

Adjust the Heat – Love spice? Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer mild? Leave them out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples.

Family-Friendly – Mild flavors kids love, with the option to spice it up for adults.

One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are a few delicious sides to pair it with:

Warm crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the tomato-rich broth.

Garlic bread – Adds a crunchy, buttery contrast.

Green salad – Balances the richness with something fresh and crisp.

Pickles or sauerkraut – A nod to Hungarian tradition with a tangy side.

Variations to Try

Tex-Mex Twist – Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, cumin, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.

Hungarian-Inspired – Use chunks of beef instead of ground, add potatoes, and double the paprika.

Vegetarian Version – Swap ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat, and use veggie broth.

Cheesy Goulash Soup – Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze in portions (without pasta for best texture) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Homemade Goulash Soup with Elbow Macaroni is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a way to gather loved ones around the table. It combines everything we crave in a single bowl: tender meat, fresh vegetables, pasta, and a rich, savory broth.

Whether you’re introducing your kids to a new family favorite, meal-prepping for a busy week, or simply seeking something cozy on a cold evening, this dish delivers every time. Affordable, adaptable, and absolutely delicious, it’s the kind of soup you’ll return to again and again.

So grab a spoon, a slice of bread, and enjoy the warm embrace of this timeless classic.

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