If you are craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, you absolutely must try the Best Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe. This timeless American classic brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. With every bite, you’ll experience layers of flavor that have made this dish a beloved favorite for generations. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this goulash promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’s simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its uncomplicated but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s classic profile—adding depth, texture, color, and that signature savory goodness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this goulash so filling and flavorful.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and an aromatic foundation to the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a subtle punch of garlicky warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Brings a rich and smooth tomato backbone to the dish.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Offers chunks of tangy tomatoes for texture and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds gentle smoky warmth and a beautiful red hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a herbaceous note that balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat to awaken the palate.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a hint of spice and extra kick.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up the sauce and create a hearty bite.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top to give a luscious creamy finish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and garlic with a gentle richness.
How to Make Best Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and let them cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This simple step unlocks their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base that will make your goulash truly special.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up while cooking until it’s nicely browned all over. This browning step brings out deep, savory notes through caramelization, making your dish incredibly rich and satisfying.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then sprinkle in paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything thoroughly, making sure the meat is evenly coated in the tomato mixture. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to blend all those flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
While your sauce is simmering, boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well, then add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your savory meat sauce. Stir carefully so every bite is infused with that delicious tomato and beef combo.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the goulash. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt over 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds a creamy, tangy layer that perfectly complements the savory mixture beneath, taking your meal to a whole new level of comforting goodness.
How to Serve Best Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream can brighten the dish and add lovely color contrasts. For an extra touch, cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of extra cheddar can bring a little more depth to every portion.
Side Dishes
This goulash shines as a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread can make the meal feel extra satisfying. Steamed vegetables or roasted carrots offer a fresh counterpoint to the hearty, cheesy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the goulash in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe, or portion it into individual casserole dishes topped with a bit more cheese and bake briefly for a bubbling, golden crust. You can also scoop it over baked potatoes or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers to put a creative twist on this classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover goulash keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its flavors and moisture. It’s an ideal dish for next-day meals or quick lunches that taste just as amazing.
Freezing
You can freeze this Old Fashioned Goulash for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Portion it out before freezing to make thawing and reheating effortless. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly warm the dish. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened. The melted cheese remains creamy and delightful after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to your pasta choice to ensure it cooks perfectly al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You might want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to keep the texture hearty and the flavors rich.
How spicy is the goulash with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overpowering heat, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you can easily omit them without losing any essence of the dish.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Just use gluten-free elbow macaroni or your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a simple option for those with dietary restrictions.
What’s the best cheese to use for melting on top?
Cheddar cheese is classic and melts beautifully, giving the dish its signature creamy finish. However, you can also use a mild mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Best Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe—it’s simple yet hearty, nostalgic but endlessly comforting. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience how it can quickly become a beloved staple in your family’s meal rotation. Its warming flavors and easy preparation make it perfectly suited for any day you want some good old-fashioned comfort food on your plate.
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Best Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Best Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty and comforting classic American dish featuring ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and spices, combined with tender elbow macaroni and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it’s rich in taste and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through.
- Add sauces and seasonings: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained macaroni into the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the goulash. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt for 2 to 3 minutes over low heat.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove from heat and serve the goulash hot for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For added vegetables, try incorporating diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Use lean ground turkey as a lower-fat alternative to ground beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- To make gluten-free, substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
