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There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash on a chilly evening, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made this Old Fashioned Goulash for my family—it was a hit, bringing back memories of grandma’s kitchen with its rich, hearty flavors. This classic dish, packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and a savory tomato sauce, is the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. In my experience, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
What I love most about preparing Old Fashioned Goulash is how simple it is, yet it tastes like you’ve slaved over it for hours. We’ve all had those days when we need something quick but satisfying, and this recipe delivers every time. If you’re craving a homemade meal that feels nostalgic and delicious, stick with me—I’m excited to share my go-to Old Fashioned Goulash recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Key Takeaways:
- Old Fashioned Goulash is a one-pot wonder that’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples.
- Ready in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners without the hassle.
- The bold, savory flavors from beef and tomatoes create an irresistible taste that’s pure comfort.
- Don’t skip browning the meat—it’s key for depth of flavor in your Old Fashioned Goulash.
- Leftovers store beautifully and taste even better the next day for easy meal prep.
Why You’ll Adore This Old Fashioned Goulash
Comfort in Every Bite: There’s nothing quite like the familiar hug of Old Fashioned Goulash after a long day. The combination of tender pasta and juicy beef makes it feel like home-cooked love on a plate. I always feel a smile creep in when I take that first spoonful—it’s pure nostalgia.
Quick and Effortless Prep: Who doesn’t love a recipe that comes together fast? This Old Fashioned Goulash skips the fuss, letting you focus on enjoying the meal instead of slaving in the kitchen. In my house, it’s a go-to because it’s ready before you know it, and everyone digs in happily.
Family-Pleasing Flavors: Kids and adults alike rave about the tangy tomato sauce mixed with cheesy goodness in this Old Fashioned Goulash. It’s hearty without being heavy, and you can tweak it to suit picky eaters. What I find interesting is how it brings everyone to the table without complaints.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual Tuesday or a weekend potluck, this dish shines. Here’s the thing: Old Fashioned Goulash pairs so well with simple sides, making your meal planning a breeze. Let’s be honest, it’s the reliable recipe every home cook needs.
Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash
Ground Beef: The star of your Old Fashioned Goulash, ground beef brings that rich, meaty flavor we all crave in comfort food. I prefer using an 80/20 mix for the perfect balance of juiciness without excess grease. It browns beautifully, infusing the whole dish with savory depth that makes every bite satisfying. Without it, this classic wouldn’t be the same.
Elbow Macaroni: These curly noodles are ideal because they hold onto the sauce like a dream, ensuring each forkful of Old Fashioned Goulash is packed with flavor. They’re quick-cooking too, which keeps the recipe under an hour. In my experience, al dente pasta adds just the right texture contrast to the tender beef and veggies.
Canned Tomatoes and Sauce: The backbone of the tangy, robust sauce in Old Fashioned Goulash, these provide that authentic zesty kick. Diced tomatoes add chunks of freshness, while the sauce ties everything together smoothly. I’ve found that a bit of Italian seasoning elevates them, making your homemade Old Fashioned Goulash taste even more irresistible.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a tablespoon of oil—trust me, this sets the stage for the best Old Fashioned Goulash. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned, about 5-7 minutes; the sizzle and aroma will fill your kitchen with promise. Next, add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until they’re soft and fragrant, roughly another 3 minutes—this builds layers of flavor that make the dish unforgettable. Drain any excess fat to keep things light, but don’t skip this step for that perfect base.
Build the Sauce and Simmer
Now, pour in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a splash of beef broth to create the hearty sauce for your Old Fashioned Goulash. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of paprika for that subtle smokiness I adore. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally—the sauce will thicken and the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll notice the kitchen smelling like a cozy diner; it’s the moment you know you’re on track for something special.
Add Pasta and Finish Cooking
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot with the sauce, adding enough water to just cover everything for even cooking in this Old Fashioned Goulash. Cover and simmer for another 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender, giving it a stir halfway through to prevent sticking—the steam rises with such inviting scents. Finally, sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt, stirring gently for that gooey finish. Taste and adjust seasonings; your Old Fashioned Goulash is now ready to serve hot and hearty.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1 green bell pepper, diced
Old Fashioned Goulash Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, around 3 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni and enough water to cover. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Serves 6. Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Goulash
Brown the Meat Well: Take the time to really brown your ground beef—it caramelizes the edges for deeper flavor in Old Fashioned Goulash.
Season in Layers: Add a pinch of salt while sautéing onions to draw out moisture and enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the macaroni to avoid mushiness; al dente is perfect for that satisfying bite.
You Must Know
- Old Fashioned Goulash originated as a simple, affordable meal using leftover ingredients.
- It’s naturally gluten-free adaptable by swapping pasta for alternatives like rice.
- The cheese melt adds creaminess, but you can omit it for a lighter version.
- This recipe scales easily—double it for crowds without changing the method.
How to Store Old Fashioned Goulash
Once cooled, transfer your Old Fashioned Goulash to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days—it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better reheated. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months, though the pasta might soften a bit. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring until hot throughout. I’ve found this makes for fantastic leftovers without any waste.
Customizing Your Old Fashioned Goulash
If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding diced bell peppers or corn for extra veggies in your Old Fashioned Goulash—it adds color and crunch without overpowering the classics. For a spicier twist, incorporate some chili flakes or swap ground turkey for beef if you want a leaner option. Vegetarians can substitute lentils for the meat, keeping the hearty vibe intact. Check out our Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for more pasta inspiration that pairs well with these ideas.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Goulash
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, adding freshness to your meal. Crusty bread or garlic rolls are great for sopping up that delicious sauce—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop. For a complete dinner, pair it with steamed broccoli or our Beef and Barley Soup Recipe as a starter. And don’t forget a glass of red wine or iced tea to round it all out nicely.
Old Fashioned Goulash
This old fashioned goulash recipe is hearty and comforting. It's full of juicy beef, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 02 2 pounds ground beef
- 03 1 onion ((finely chopped))
- 04 3 cloves garlic ((minced))
- 05 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 06 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
- 07 2 14.5 oz cans petit diced tomatoes
- 08 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 09 2 teaspoons salt
- 10 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 11 1 cup cheddar cheese ((shredded))
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook macaroni for 3 minutes less than the box directions, then drain.
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add ground beef and onions to the pan. Break beef apart, cooking for 6-7 minutes until browned. Drain any fat.
Mix in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix until combined.
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings.
Mix in cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese. If your skillet is heat-safe, you can place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is melted. If the skillet is not heat-safe, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish and bake.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Goulash
Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely, Old Fashioned Goulash is perfect for prepping in advance—it actually develops more flavor overnight in the fridge. Just cook it fully, cool, and store as directed, then reheat when ready. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or busy evenings.
How long does Old Fashioned Goulash last in the fridge?
Your Old Fashioned Goulash will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container. Beyond that, freeze it to extend its life. Always check for any off smells before reheating.
Is Old Fashioned Goulash gluten-free?
Traditional Old Fashioned Goulash uses pasta, so it’s not naturally gluten-free, but you can easily swap in gluten-free macaroni or zucchini noodles. This keeps the texture and taste intact for dietary needs. I’ve tried it both ways, and it works wonderfully.
Can I use a different pasta in Old Fashioned Goulash?
Yes, feel free to experiment with shells or rotini in your Old Fashioned Goulash—they hold the sauce just as well. Just adjust cooking times slightly for the shape. For more pasta ideas, see our Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe.
What’s the difference between this and Hungarian goulash?
This American-style Old Fashioned Goulash is quicker and pasta-based, unlike the stew-like Hungarian version with potatoes and no noodles. Both are hearty, but ours is more casserole-inspired. It’s a comforting twist on the original.
How can I make Old Fashioned Goulash spicier?
To amp up the heat in Old Fashioned Goulash, add diced jalapeños during the veggie sauté or a dash of cayenne to the sauce. Start small and taste as you go for the perfect kick. It transforms the dish without much effort.
Can kids eat Old Fashioned Goulash?
Definitely—kids love the cheesy, pasta elements in Old Fashioned Goulash, making it a sneaky way to get veggies in too. Tone down spices if needed, and involve them in stirring for fun. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners.
Is there a slow cooker version of Old Fashioned Goulash?
Yes, brown the beef first, then dump everything into the crockpot on low for 4-6 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes to avoid mushiness. This hands-off method is great for busy days. Try our Crockpot Chili Recipe for similar slow-cooked vibes.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, this Old Fashioned Goulash has become a staple in my home for its ease, flavor, and the joy it brings to the table—it’s the kind of recipe that creates lasting memories. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, I know you’ll love how it comes together so effortlessly. Give this Old Fashioned Goulash a try tonight, and let me know in the comments how it turned out—you won’t be disappointed!