Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal packed with hearty beef, tender pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. It’s a classic American-style goulash, not to be confused with Hungarian goulash, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Want more classic comfort food recipes? Subscribe now for delicious meal ideas straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples.
• Perfectly Hearty: Packed with beef, pasta, and a rich, savory sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef (1 ½ lbs) – Adds rich, savory flavor.
• Elbow Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked) – The perfect pasta for soaking up the sauce.
• Onion (1 large, diced) – Adds depth and sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz, with juice) – The base of the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Thickens the goulash.
• Beef Broth (2 cups) – Adds a rich, beefy taste.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Deepens the umami flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a subtle tang.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – A touch of warmth.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Blends herbs for extra flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasoning.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses the dish with warmth.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded, optional) – For a cheesy twist.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion & Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Let it simmer for 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove bay leaves, stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, and serve hot!

What to Serve with Goulash

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty meal.
• Steamed Vegetables – Adds a nutritious side.

Tips for the Best Goulash

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir occasionally and check for doneness.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use Different Cheese: Try mozzarella or parmesan for a twist.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep it saucy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with a different protein?
Yes! Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the pasta for gluten-free macaroni.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use about 3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Try it out and let me know how it turns out!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 48g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 780mg

Print