Lay out all your ingredients to have everything within arm's reach. Begin by cutting the beef into bite-sized chunks. Chop your onions and garlic finely; these offer a fragrant foundation to your dish. Having vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers diced ahead will make cooking smoother as you move through the steps.
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of oil once hot. Brown the beef chunks on all sides, ensuring each piece is evenly seared, locking in the juices. This step is crucial for adding depth to the flavor of your goulash. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add onions and garlic, stirring frequently so they become translucent and aromatic. Add diced bell peppers and continue to cook until they soften. This vibrant mix of vegetables enhances the flavor profile with sweetness and earthiness.
While the goulash simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add your noodles of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. These will absorb the fragrant juices from the goulash upon serving.
Notes
Store any leftover beef goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, the goulash sauce can be frozen separately for up to two months. Enjoy reheating what's left for easy, delicious meals.