Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes have the universal appeal of a hearty goulash. And when you pair it with the nostalgic flavor of Campbell’s Tomato Soup, you get a twist on a classic that’s warm, filling, and completely satisfying. This Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash recipe is not just a quick weeknight meal; it’s a go-to option when you’re looking for a cozy dinner that delivers on taste and simplicity.

Goulash, traditionally a Hungarian dish, can be interpreted in many ways depending on the region or personal preferences. In this version, we’re using Campbell’s Tomato Soup as the base, which gives the dish a creamy texture and a slightly tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory meat and pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings together family and friends around the table, with everyone savoring each bite.

Let’s dive into the recipe, ingredients, tips, and variations to make this Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash your next favorite meal.

Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash Recipe

This Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash recipe is a one-pot wonder, where comfort meets convenience. You get the richness of beef or turkey, the heartiness of pasta, and the sweetness of tomato soup-all coming together in a deliciously creamy dish.

Ingredients Needed

To make this Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash, you’ll need some basic pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For The Base

• 1 can of Campbell’s Tomato Soup: This is the star of the dish. It gives the goulash that smooth, comforting texture and flavor.
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey): The meat adds that savory depth and helps to make the dish hearty and filling.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and flavor to the base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses a wonderful aromatic undertone.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (optional): For extra tomato flavor and texture if you want your goulash more saucy and chunky.
• 1 cup of beef broth: To loosen up the soup and add some liquid for cooking the pasta.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer): The pasta soaks up the soup’s flavor and makes the dish satisfying.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Adds an herbal, savory note.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Gives a classic Italian flavor that pairs well with the tomato base.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

For The Garnish (Optional)

• Grated cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of cheese on top will melt into the warm goulash, making each bite even more decadent.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal touch to balance the richness.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking this Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash is a breeze and takes very little time to prepare. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook The Pasta

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your elbow macaroni (or whatever pasta you’re using) and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown The Meat

   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat if using beef.

3. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the meat and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.

4. Combine The Soup Base

   • Stir in the can of Campbell’s Tomato Soup, beef broth, diced tomatoes (if using), and seasonings (basil, oregano, salt, and pepper).
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Add The Pasta

   • Stir in the cooked pasta, making sure it’s well-coated with the soup mixture.
   • Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened a bit.

6. Serve

   • Spoon the goulash into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and fresh parsley before serving for extra flavor and a beautiful finish.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down a few key ingredients and why they’re so essential to this recipe:

• Campbell’s Tomato Soup: This is the backbone of the dish. The creamy texture adds richness, and the tangy tomato flavor balances out the savory ingredients. It also provides a lot of depth without needing to make a tomato sauce from scratch, saving both time and effort.
• Ground Meat: Ground beef or turkey is common in goulash recipes. The meat adds protein and texture. Beef gives a rich, full flavor, while turkey offers a leaner option without sacrificing too much taste. Both work well in this dish, so feel free to use whichever you prefer.
• Elbow Macaroni: Traditional goulash uses elbow macaroni for its bite-sized, satisfying texture. You could substitute other types of pasta, like penne or rotini, but elbow macaroni holds up well in this recipe, soaking up the flavors without becoming mushy.
• Herbs and Garlic: Basil and oregano give this dish a Mediterranean flair, while garlic adds an aromatic warmth. These ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it more complex than just a simple tomato soup with pasta.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer your goulash with a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. If you want it a bit soupier, add extra beef broth or even a splash of water.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Tomato-based dishes, especially, need enough salt to bring out the full flavor of the tomatoes.
• Cheese for Extra Creaminess: Adding shredded cheddar cheese to the top not only adds a layer of richness, but it also helps thicken the sauce slightly, giving the goulash a luscious texture.
• Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving. This will brighten up the rich flavors of the goulash.

Recipe Variations

One of the things I love about goulash is how flexible it is. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and use a plant-based ground meat alternative or just load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can even add some beans for extra protein.
• Spicy Goulash: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mixture if you like a bit of heat in your dish.
• Cheese Lover’s Goulash: Mix in some cream cheese or mozzarella with the tomato soup for a creamier, cheesier version of the dish. Top with more cheese and broil for a golden, bubbly crust.
• Slow Cooker Goulash: You can easily make this dish in the slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the pasta about 30 minutes before serving.

Final Words

Campbell’s Tomato Soup Goulash is a recipe that strikes a perfect balance between ease and flavor. It’s a great go-to when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of tomato soup, pasta, and savory meat is a winning trio, and there’s plenty of room for customization depending on your tastes.