There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm, hearty soup that feels like it’s been simmering all day, even when it only takes a fraction of the time. Ground Beef Goulash Soup is a classic comfort dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich, tomato-based broth seasoned with paprika and aromatic herbs.

Inspired by traditional Hungarian goulash but simplified for weeknight cooking, this soup strikes the perfect balance between bold flavors and approachable ingredients. Each spoonful delivers savory, slightly smoky notes from the paprika, sweetness from tender tomatoes and onions, and a satisfying heartiness from the ground beef and pasta.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Ground Beef Goulash Soup because it blends rich, homey flavors with simplicity. The smoky paprika and tender beef create a robust, comforting base, while the veggies and potatoes make it feel wholesome and nourishing.

It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld beautifully.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because it delivers everything you want in a meal: flavor, nutrition, and ease. You don’t need fancy ingredients — just humble pantry staples that transform into something magical.

It’s perfect for meal prep, great for feeding a crowd, and it freezes wonderfully. Whether you’re craving something to warm you up or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this goulash soup will never disappoint.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Cuisine: Hungarian-inspired / European

Course: Main Course / Soup

Ingredients

For the Goulash Soup:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp sweet paprika
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

Brown ground beef in olive oil, breaking it into crumbles.
Add onion, garlic, and vegetables; sauté until softened.
Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and spices for flavor.
Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; add potatoes and bay leaf.
Simmer until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Veggies

Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, thyme, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and release their aroma.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth. Stir well, then add the cubed potatoes, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

How to Serve

Serve this Ground Beef Goulash Soup hot with:

A side of crusty bread or garlic toast
A dollop of sour cream for richness
A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness

It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or cucumber-dill salad.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and make the soup lighter.
Don’t skip the paprika – it’s the soul of goulash!
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving — the flavors deepen beautifully.
Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.
To thicken the soup, mash a few potato cubes in the pot and stir.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Goulash Soup – Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
Ground Turkey or Chicken – A lighter alternative to beef.
Low-Carb Version – Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Hungarian Classic Style – Use chunks of beef instead of ground, simmered longer.
Add Beans – Kidney or pinto beans for a more filling, chili-like soup.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled soup in containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot.

Special Equipment Needed

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Ladle for serving
Sharp knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use about 3–4 chopped fresh tomatoes, though canned ones add richer flavor.

Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef and onions first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Q3: Can I add pasta?
Yes, short pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Q4: Is it gluten-free?
Yes — as long as your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Goulash Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl — rich, warm, and hearty with layers of flavor from paprika, tender beef, and veggies. It’s an easy, nourishing one-pot meal that’s as satisfying for weeknights as it is for family gatherings. Whether you’re new to goulash or a longtime fan, this soup will quickly earn a place in your dinner rotation!