If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re in for a treat with this Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe. It’s a comforting, satisfying blend of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and tender elbow pasta that comes together in one pot with minimal fuss. I absolutely love how this soup fills the kitchen with cozy aromas and how the flavors deepen when you let it simmer. Stick around—I’m going to share everything you need to make this fan-freaking-tastic soup that my whole family goes crazy for!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
Balanced Flavors: The blend of tomatoes, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce makes the soup rich but not overpowering.
Family Favorite: It’s a versatile soup everyone in my house loves, perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends.
Comfort Food Classic: Hearty enough to satisfy but still light enough not to leave you overly full.

A white bowl filled with three layers of food: the bottom layer is a smooth, tomato-based broth with a reddish-brown color; the middle layer consists of cooked elbow macaroni pasta in a pale yellow shade mixed with small pieces of ground meat in brown; the top layer is sprinkled with fresh green chopped herbs, adding a pop of color. The bowl rests on a white plate and is placed on a white marbled surface with a brown cloth partially around it. A silver spoon is set next to the bowl, and some green parsley and a glass bowl of grated cheese are blurry in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup, beef goulash soup, tomato beef soup, one-pot beef soup, comforting beef soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

I like that this recipe combines simple, everyday ingredients that complement each other beautifully. When shopping, pick ripe tomatoes or quality canned ones—they really make a difference in flavor.

Flat lay of lean ground beef shaped into a neat mound, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl filled with chopped yellow onion pieces, a small white bowl with chopped bright orange carrots, two whole uncracked garlic bulbs, a small white bowl of deep red tomato sauce, a small white bowl of petite diced fresh red tomatoes, a small white bowl of rich dark beef broth, fresh sprigs of marjoram and thyme arranged side by side, two whole fresh bay leaves, small elbow macaroni pasta scattered in a small white bowl, a small white bowl with bright yellow frozen corn kernels, a small handful of fresh chopped green parsley, a small white bowl with finely grated pale parmesan cheese, and two whole brown eggs placed separately, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a simple white ceramic background, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup, beef goulash soup, tomato beef soup, one-pot beef soup, comforting beef soup

Lean ground beef: I use lean to keep the soup from getting too greasy but still packed with protein and flavor.
Olive oil: For that first sauté step, I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste.
Yellow onion: A small, finely chopped onion adds that foundational sweetness to the soup.
Carrots: I chop them small so they meld easily into the broth but still add a nice texture.
Garlic cloves: Don’t skimp here—minced garlic boosts the savory depth.
Salt and pepper: Seasoning throughout is key to making the flavors pop.
Low-sodium beef broth: Using low-sodium lets you control the salt level better.
Tomato sauce: Provides the rich tomato base that ties everything together.
Petite diced tomatoes: Adds lovely chunks of tomato texture and fresh brightness.
Worcestershire sauce: This is my secret ingredient—it adds a subtle umami kick you’ll notice.
Fresh marjoram and thyme (or dried): These herbs give the soup its aromatic, earthy vibe.
Bay leaves: They infuse the broth with a gentle herbal note.
Dry small elbow pasta: The classic shape for goulash soup—it holds onto the sauce perfectly.
Frozen corn (optional): I like adding this last for a touch of sweetness and color, but it’s totally optional.
Fresh chopped parsley and finely grated parmesan cheese: These finishing touches brighten and elevate each bowl.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love tweaking this Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. Feel free to make it your own—you’ll find it very forgiving!

Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based twist that’s just as hearty.
Extra Veggies: I sometimes add diced bell peppers or zucchini to boost the veggie count and add texture.
Spice it Up: A pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that my spice-loving friends adore.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this soup suitable for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing comfort.

How to Make Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies to Build Flavor

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and carrots, cooking for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute—watch closely to avoid burning, since garlic can turn bitter fast. Once done, transfer the sautéed mixture to a plate; this helps keep things clean while you brown the beef next.

Step 2: Brown the Beef to Lock in Juices

Heat your remaining olive oil in the pot, then add the lean ground beef. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until the beef is browned and no longer pink—this usually takes 6 to 8 minutes. Don’t rush this step because the browning adds a ton of extra flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep your soup from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer to Develop Depth

Return the sautéed onions and carrots to the pot along with the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, marjoram, thyme, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the dry elbow pasta, cover, and turn the heat down to medium. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking, for about 15 to 20 minutes until the pasta is tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Add Corn and Finish the Soup

If you’re using frozen corn, stir it in during the last 3 minutes of cooking so it heats through without losing its sweet snap. Once the pasta is done and the soup has thickened slightly, remove the bay leaves. You’re ready to ladle the soup into bowls and top it with fresh parsley and parmesan. Trust me, these garnishes add freshness and a little salty punch that’s irresistible.

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Pro Tips for Making Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe

Brown the beef thoroughly: Browning adds rich flavor—don’t skip this or rush it.
Stir the pasta occasionally: Prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.
Taste and adjust salt last: Depending on your broth and canned tomatoes, salt needs may vary.
Don’t overcook the pasta: You want it tender but not mushy to keep texture appealing.

How to Serve Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe

A white pot filled with a thick, rich soup made of small elbow macaroni, ground meat, bright orange carrot slices, and tomato pieces in a deep red broth, all topped with chopped green herbs. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a brown cloth under one side. Next to the pot is a wooden spoon with a smooth texture lying flat. Below, there is a white plate with many square saltine crackers and a small clear glass bowl filled with finely grated cheese. Fresh green parsley leaves are placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup, beef goulash soup, tomato beef soup, one-pot beef soup, comforting beef soup

Garnishes

I’m a huge fan of fresh chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of finely grated parmesan cheese for garnish. The parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while parmesan brings a savory, melty finish that takes the soup to the next level. If I’m feeling fancy, I sometimes add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal on its own, but I like pairing it with crusty bread or buttery garlic toast to soak up every last bit of broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the richness if you want a lighter side.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this soup in rustic bread bowls—my guests loved the edible presentation! Another fun idea is to top the soup with crispy fried onions or even a swirl of pesto for an unexpected flavor twist. It’s a simple dish that’s easy to dress up and impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In my experience, it keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just give it a good stir when reheating to reincorporate flavors.

Freezing

This Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe freezes well, but I recommend undercooking the pasta slightly before freezing, so it doesn’t become mushy when reheated. Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers and it’s ready for future busy days or cozy nights in.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. This helps restore that fresh-from-the-pot texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating brings the best results.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?

Absolutely! While small elbow pasta is traditional and holds the soup well, tiny shells, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti can work fine. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?

Definitely. You can add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables or stir in a dash of hot sauce before serving. Smoked paprika also adds a smoky, spicy depth that’s delicious.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

You can! Sauté the beef and veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add pasta during the last 20-30 minutes to prevent it from getting mushy.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can use soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar to mimic the umami flavor Worcestershire adds. It’s not exactly the same, but it works in a pinch!

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Beef Tomato Goulash Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—comforting, nourishing, and downright tasty. When I first tried this recipe, I struggled with the right balance of flavors, but with a few tweaks, it became an instant family favorite. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making this as much as eating it, and maybe even share it with friends around your own table. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and get cooking—the perfect bowl of cozy is waiting!