Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

If there’s a dish that embodies pure cozy comfort on a busy weeknight, it’s Old Fashioned Goulash. A steaming pot of tender elbow macaroni, juicy ground beef, and an irresistible tomato sauce hugged with just the right amount of savory seasonings—this hearty classic is beloved across generations for good reason! Not only does it come together in one big pot (hello, easy cleanup), but every forkful delivers that home-cooked flavor we crave when we want to nourish both body and soul.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Old Fashioned Goulash is in its simplicity: a handful of pantry staples come together to create something deeply satisfying. Each ingredient pulls its weight—whether it’s for rich flavor, satisfying texture, or that iconic vibrant color.

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the onion and garlic for a savory flavor base.
• Onion (diced): Gives a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens.
• Garlic (minced): Brings warmth and a signature aromatic bite to every spoonful.
• Ground beef: The heartiness here gives Old Fashioned Goulash its meaty, satisfying character.
• Tomato sauce: Creates the saucy backbone that ties everything together.
• Diced tomatoes (with juice): Offer texture and a boost of freshness while enriching the sauce.
• Beef broth: Deepens the savory notes and helps the pasta cook perfectly in one pot.
• Italian seasoning: A blend that infuses every bite with herby, comforting flavor.
• Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and warmth that sets this dish apart.
• Worcestershire sauce: Lends subtle tang and umami for a more complex taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the other flavors.
• Elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic shape that soaks up all the saucy goodness.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A creamy, melty touch for those who like an extra layer of comfort.

How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic next, cooking just until fragrant, about a minute. That quick sizzle fills your kitchen with the kind of aroma that always puts a smile on your face!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Now add your ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it browns, making sure you get those flavorful golden bits. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease. This step sets the stage for that deep, savory base that makes Old Fashioned Goulash so special.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

With the beef browned and the kitchen smelling amazing, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix, then bring the pot to a gentle simmer. You’ll see the sauce come together—it’s thick, rich, and full of promise!

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged. Clamp on the lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it all cook together for 15 to 20 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. The magic here is that the pasta soaks up all those flavors and becomes perfectly tender—no need for separate boiling!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

If you’re a fan of cheesy goodness, now’s the time to stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. It melts in seconds, making the goulash even more luscious and creamy. Ladle generously into bowls and serve piping hot. Every bite is pure, nostalgic comfort!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds a pop of color and fresh flavor right at the end. If you’re feeling decadent, a little extra shredded cheese or even a dollop of sour cream on top gives Old Fashioned Goulash a truly inviting finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every last bit of the savory tomato sauce. Pair your goulash with a light green salad or some simply steamed green beans for a classic, balanced meal that brings out the best in every element.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Old Fashioned Goulash in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins for a fun twist. You could even turn leftovers into a baked casserole—just spoon into a dish, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly. It’s a simple way to make leftovers feel brand-new!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Old Fashioned Goulash keeps beautifully. Transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too! Let the goulash cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and know that you’re just a quick warm-up away from comfort food bliss.

Reheating

Reheat Old Fashioned Goulash on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the pasta needs loosening up. You can also microwave individual portions for a fast and satisfying lunch, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice for Old Fashioned Goulash, small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may need a few more or fewer minutes to become tender.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily keep Old Fashioned Goulash dairy-free by omitting the cheddar cheese at the end. The dish is still comforting and delicious without it—perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions!

Is it possible to add extra vegetables?

Definitely! This is a flexible recipe. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach can all be stirred in with the onion for added nutrition, color, and flavor. It’s a tasty way to sneak in extra veggies.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of ground beef and pork are all tasty options. You can also make a vegetarian version by using lentils or plant-based crumbles; just use vegetable broth in place of beef broth to keep the flavors rich and balanced.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, Old Fashioned Goulash is a fantastic crowd-pleaser! Just make sure you have a large enough pot and increase the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta cooks through evenly. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t already fallen in love with Old Fashioned Goulash, get ready—this recipe is all about comfort, flavor, and ease. I hope you’ll give it a try the next time you crave something hearty, homemade, and incredibly satisfying. Trust me, your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

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