Amish Beef and Noodle Goulash is the ultimate definition of comfort food. This hearty, one-pot meal has been a staple in many households for generations, thanks to its simple ingredients and soul-warming flavors. Unlike the complex stews found in other cultures, the Amish version of goulash focuses on the perfect harmony of tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and soft noodles.
Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, this recipe delivers every time. It is a nostalgic dish that brings the family together around the dinner table, offering a taste of traditional home cooking that never goes out of style.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 385 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
Why Make This Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love this recipe, but the main one is its sheer simplicity. You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets or expensive ingredients to create a meal that tastes like it has been simmering all day. It is a budget-friendly option that uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand, such as pasta and canned tomato products.
Additionally, this goulash is a “one-pot wonder.” This means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax after dinner. The combination of savory beef and pasta soaked in a rich tomato broth creates a satisfying texture that is incredibly filling. It is a reliable go-to for busy families who want a nutritious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
Making this dish is straightforward and follows a logical flow that ensures every ingredient is perfectly cooked. By browning the meat first and then simmering everything together, you build layers of flavor that make the final result truly special.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or wide egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and green bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Goulash
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the spices to meld with the tomato base and creates a richer flavor profile.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the uncooked macaroni or egg noodles directly into the pot. Stir to ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serving
Once the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. If you are using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover for a minute until melted. Serve hot and enjoy.
How to Serve Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
This goulash is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the beef. You can also serve it with a side of warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of the delicious tomato sauce. For a bit of crunch, consider serving some steamed green beans or roasted carrots on the side.
How to Store Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
If you have leftovers, they store wonderfully. Place the cooled goulash in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or beef broth, as the noodles will continue to absorb the sauce while sitting. To freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
To ensure the best results, try using lean ground beef (90/10) so the dish isn’t overly greasy. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the goulash sit for 5 minutes after cooking; the pasta will naturally thicken the liquid. Also, be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should be “al dente” when you turn off the heat, as they will continue to soften in the residual warmth of the pot.
Delicious Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. If you want to increase the veggie count, stir in some frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For a different protein profile, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even ground sausage for an extra kick of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amish goulash different from Hungarian goulash?
Yes, they are quite different. Hungarian goulash is typically a meat and vegetable stew seasoned heavily with paprika, often served over potatoes or dumplings. Amish goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish similar to American “Chop Suey.”
Q: Can I cook the noodles separately?
You can, but cooking them in the sauce allows the pasta to absorb all the savory flavors. If you do cook them separately, reduce the beef broth in the sauce by half.
Q: What are the best noodles to use?
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but wide egg noodles or even penne work very well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and aromatics first, then add everything except the noodles to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
Q: Why did my goulash turn out dry?
The noodles likely absorbed too much liquid. This can happen if the heat is too high or if it sits too long. Simply stir in a little extra beef broth or tomato juice to loosen it up.
Conclusion
The Amish Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe is a timeless classic that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. With its simple preparation and hearty ingredients, it is the perfect solution for a cozy family meal. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a true taste of home-cooked tradition!

Amish Beef And Noodle Goulash Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or wide egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and green bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the spices to meld with the tomato base and creates a richer flavor profile.
- Add the uncooked macaroni or egg noodles directly into the pot. Stir to ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. If you are using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover for a minute until melted. Serve hot and enjoy.
- Cook Time: 40 minutes




