Low Carb Goulash – One Pot Keto Recipe

This low carb goulash recipe is delicious and so easy to whip up in just one pot. Making traditional goulash into a keto recipe has never been easier. With the simple swap of zucchini chunks for macaroni noodles, you’re family may not even know that this is a keto goulash.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe my mom used to make when I was a child. It consisted of macaroni, ground meat, onion, red sauce, and some seasonings. So when the craving hit, I decided to make a keto version using my homemade spaghetti sauce and chunks of zucchini.

After serving it to my mom and finding out how much she enjoyed it I knew this recipe was too good not to share.

Plus, the fact that this meal is made in one pot and is keto-friendly, it has earned its spot in our weekly rotation.

Keto Goulash Ingredients

Indulge in a comforting bowl of keto-friendly goulash featuring premium ground beef, fresh zucchini, aromatic onion, garlic, and a harmonious blend of bay leaves, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Enhanced with a dash of salt, celery seed, hearty beef broth, and rich red sauce, this recipe promises a satisfyingly wholesome meal.

How to Make Goulash Low-Carb

This section gives you step-by-step instructions on how to make a low-carb goulash recipe. For full measurements and ingredients head to the bottom of this post to see the full recipe card.

Step 1: Grab your Dutch Oven

Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add the ground meat, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent.

Step 2: Add the Zucchini

Once browned, add the chopped zucchini and the selected seasonings to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to come together.

Step 3: Add Low-Carb Spaghetti Sauce

Pour in the low-carb red sauce and beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Keto Goulash Until Vegetables Are Tender

Cover the Dutch oven and let the goulash cook for about 20 minutes or until the zucchini reaches your desired level of tenderness, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Remove Bay Leaves & Serve

Once the zucchini is tender, remove the bay leaves and discard. Serve the low-carb goulash piping hot and relish in its comforting flavors.

Substitutions & Variations

Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein like tofu for a lighter twist.

Vegetable Substitutions: Experiment with different low-carb veggies such as bell peppers, cauliflower, or broccoli florets to add color and texture.

Sauce Selection: Explore various sugar-free marinara or tomato sauces, or try homemade versions with diced tomatoes and herbs for a personalized touch.

Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle on some grated parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese before serving for a creamy and indulgent finish.

Is Goulash High in Carbs?

Certainly! The traditional version of Goulash tends to be high in carbs due to the presence of pasta or other high-carb ingredients. However, the low-carb version of Goulash, like the one provided in this recipe, significantly reduces the carb content by substituting high-carb ingredients such as macaroni with low-carb alternatives like zucchini.

As a result, the low-carb Goulash is much lower in carbs compared to its traditional counterpart, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

Can I Eat Ground Beef Every Day on Keto?

Can I eat ground beef every day on keto? Consuming ground beef daily as part of your ketogenic diet is feasible, but it’s important to maintain nutritional balance. While ground beef offers ample protein and healthy fats crucial for ketosis, it’s essential to incorporate a variety of foods to ensure you’re obtaining all the essential nutrients necessary for overall health.

Can You Eat Tomatoes on the Keto Diet?

Absolutely! They’re low in carbs, making them an excellent addition to your keto meal plan. In fact, one whole medium tomato contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, with 1.5 grams attributed to fiber and 3 grams to sugar.

What Tomato Sauce Has the Lowest Carbs?

Indulge in the convenience of store-bought low-carb spaghetti sauces when time is tight and your kitchen is calling for convenience. These top picks promise to keep your carb intake in check while satisfying your taste buds:

1. Cucina Antica Tomato Basil: With only 6 grams of carbs per 1/2 cup, this sauce boasts a delightful blend of fresh San Marzano tomatoes and fragrant basil, perfect for elevating your pasta or zoodles.
2. Muir Glen Portobello Mushroom Sauce: Featuring earthy mushrooms and a USDA-certified organic ingredient list, this sauce offers a savory flavor profile with just 6.4 grams of carbs per 1/2 cup.
3. Victoria Marinara Sauce: A soulful marinara option with a mere 6 grams of carbs per serving, this sauce delivers thick, rich flavors enhanced by fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and onions.
4. Rao’s Homemade Vodka Sauce: Indulge in the creamy texture and rich flavors of this vodka-infused sauce, boasting only 7 grams of carbs per 1/2 cup and crafted with premium ingredients like Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
5. Due Cellucci Arrabbiata (Spicy) Sauce: For those craving a spicy kick, this chile-infused sauce offers just 1 gram of carbs per 1/2 cup, making it a fiery yet low-carb option that won’t disappoint.
6. Yo Mama’s Foods Marinara Magnifica Gourmet Pasta Sauce: With a simple yet flavorful recipe featuring fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and basil, this sauce offers a homemade taste with just 5 grams of carbs per serving.

These sauces prove that cutting carbs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. So whether you’re craving a traditional marinara or a spicy arrabbiata, these low-carb options have you covered, ensuring you can enjoy your pasta or zoodles guilt-free.

More Easy One Pan Low Carb Recipes

Keto Philly Cheese Steak Skillet Recipe

High Protein Low Carb Dinner Idea – Cheesy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Creamy Parmesan Tuscan Chicken Recipe – One Pan Meal

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