Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, hearty aroma of Old Fashioned Goulash simmering on the stove. This classic American comfort dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce, all in one pot. It's a meal that's both satisfying and budget-friendly—perfect for feeding a hungry family.

this Recipe

I remember my grandmother making this goulash when I was a child. The scent of garlic and tomatoes would fill the kitchen, and we'd all gather around, eager to dig in. Now, I make it for my own family, and it's just as beloved. The best part? It's incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite one-pot meal. This Old Fashioned Goulash is a true classic, and for good reason.

First, it's incredibly simple to make. Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal cleanup—always a win in my book!

It's also budget-friendly. Made with pantry staples like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and pasta, this meal is as affordable as it is delicious.

The flavors are out of this world. With a rich, tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onions, and spices, every bite is packed with warmth and comfort.

Best of all, it's kid-approved! Even picky eaters can't resist the combination of tender pasta and savory beef in a lightly seasoned, slightly tangy sauce.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that nostalgic, home-cooked flavor.

Ground beef is the heart of this dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef, as it has the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90/10, but you might need to add a touch of olive oil to prevent dryness.

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta choice. It holds up well in the sauce and absorbs all that delicious flavor. If you're out of macaroni, small shells or rotini work as great substitutes.

Canned tomatoes are essential for the sauce. A mix of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce creates a perfect balance of texture and depth. If you like a little extra richness, try adding a splash of tomato paste.

Garlic and onions provide an aromatic base. Freshly minced garlic and diced onions add depth to the dish, making it taste like it’s been simmering all day—even though it comes together quickly.

Seasonings bring everything together. A mix of paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper gives the dish its classic comforting taste. Some people add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making Old Fashioned Goulash is incredibly simple, and the entire dish comes together in just a few easy steps.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it up with a wooden spoon. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.

Next, add the onions and garlic, letting them cook until they're soft and fragrant. This step is key for building flavor—your kitchen will start to smell amazing at this point!

Now it's time to add the tomatoes and seasonings. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Stir everything together, making sure the flavors are well combined. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld.

While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni separately until it’s just shy of al dente. Since it will continue to cook once mixed with the sauce, you don’t want it to get too soft.

Finally, stir in the cooked pasta and let everything simmer together for another few minutes. This allows the pasta to soak up all the delicious flavors. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Old Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it a great meal-prep option.

To store in the refrigerator, place leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, freeze the goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is its versatility. Here are a few ways to tweak the recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Want more protein? Swap ground beef for ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Prefer a veggie-packed version? Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the mix when cooking the onions and garlic.

If you're looking to lighten things up, try whole wheat or chickpea pasta instead of regular macaroni. It adds extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.

For a bit of spice, add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. This gives the goulash a nice little kick!

No elbow macaroni on hand? Penne, rotini, or small shells all work beautifully as substitutes.

No matter how you customize it, this Old Fashioned Goulash is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of classic comfort food at its best!

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