Nothing says comfort food quite like a piping hot bowl of Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe. This hearty dish blends savory ground beef, tender diced tomatoes, and a warmly spiced sauce that perfectly coats fluffy rice, making it a go-to meal for any night of the week. Each bite delivers a cozy, mouthwatering experience that’s as rich in flavor as it is simple to prepare, proving that delicious homemade dinners don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that well-balanced, flavorful goulash we all crave. From the fragrant garlic to the sharp cheddar finale, every element adds texture, color, or depth to this homestyle favorite.
- 1 lb ground beef: Serves as the hearty base and provides rich, meaty flavor.
- 1 large onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to golden perfection.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced for best flavor): Offers subtle pungency and warmth that wakes up the palate.
- 45 oz diced tomatoes: Bring juiciness and a tangy-sweet layer; Muir Glen tomatoes are a great choice for quality.
- 3.5 tsp chili powder: Injects a gentle kick and earthy spice to the sauce.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Lends a smoky background note, rounding out the chili powder’s intensity.
- 1 tsp parsley: Adds a fresh herbaceous touch that lightens the dish beautifully.
- 0.75 tsp basil: Brings a subtle floral sweetness, brightening the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a perfectly harmonious sauce.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances every flavor and ties the ingredients together seamlessly.
- 3/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just enough heat and complexity without overpowering.
- 2 cups corn: Provides bursts of natural sweetness and delightful texture contrast.
- 4 cups cooked rice: The comforting canvas that soaks up all the luscious sauce.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into gooey bliss, finishing this dish with rich, savory goodness.
How to Make Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon to get that perfect crumbly texture. Browning the beef well builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish, so take your time to develop a nice caramelized crust on the meat.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Push the beef to one side of the skillet and toss in the finely diced onions and minced garlic. Cook them together until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step fills the kitchen with that nostalgic home-cooking scent that’s impossible to resist.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Then sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, parsley, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. Simmer the mixture gently so all the spices meld into a rich, savory sauce that hugs every bit of beef and veggie.
Step 4: Stir in Corn and Simmer
Adding the corn not only boosts the flavor but also introduces a pop of sweetness and delightful texture contrast. Let the goulash simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken just enough to cling deliciously to the rice later.
Step 5: Combine with Cooked Rice and Cheese
Once the sauce is perfectly simmered, stir in the cooked rice. This step transforms the dish into a satisfying one-pot meal. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the pan to let it melt into a gooey, cheesy layer that makes every spoonful an absolute treat.
How to Serve Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish to the next level. Chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions adds a bright, fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the savory goulash. A dollop of sour cream can provide a creamy tang, balancing out the spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of color to your plate. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fabulous for scooping up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, consider serving the goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. This adds a stunning presentation and provides additional flavor layers that are sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so your next meal might just be even better than the first!
Freezing
This goulash freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, making sure to leave space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting meal in a flash.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to keep the mixture moist and saucy. You can also microwave it covered in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Don’t forget to freshen it up with a sprinkle of cheese or a quick handful of fresh herbs before serving!
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives this goulash its classic flavor, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, and seasoning adjustments may be needed to maintain the rich flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use rice and verify that your spices and canned tomatoes do not contain any gluten additives. Always check labels if you have a strict gluten intolerance.
What rice works best in this recipe?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work beautifully here, giving a light, fluffy texture that absorbs the sauce perfectly. Brown rice is also a nutritious option but may require longer cooking time.
How spicy is the goulash?
The spice level is mild to moderate, thanks to the chili powder and black pepper. You can adjust the chili powder quantity to your preference, or add a pinch of cayenne if you’d like a bit more heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?
Definitely! This Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe scales up easily, making it great for feeding a hungry group. Prepare it a day in advance to let the flavors marry, then simply reheat and serve when ready.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy to whip up and satisfyingly delicious, I can’t recommend this Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe enough. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that welcomes you home with every spoonful, sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Print
Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Ground Beef Goulash with Rice is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with aromatic spices, sweet corn, and served over fluffy cooked rice. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish combines classic flavors with an easy stovetop cooking method, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups corn
Tomato & Spices
- 45 oz diced tomatoes (preferably Muir Glen)
- 3.5 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp parsley
- 0.75 tsp basil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
Grains & Cheese
- 4 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the meat, stirring often until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, parsley, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
- Simmer the goulash: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet or pot. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage flavor melding.
- Add corn: Stir in the corn and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the corn is heated through and tender.
- Serve over rice and cheese: Spoon the hot goulash over portions of cooked rice. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top while still warm to allow it to melt slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika.
- Using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced enhances the flavor significantly.
- Leftover goulash keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats perfectly.
- To make it gluten free, ensure the spices and canned tomatoes are certified gluten free.
