If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned to perfection, it’s a classic American favorite that’s stood the test of time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests with a nostalgic dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a starring role to create that perfect balance of rich, tangy, and cheesy flavors that make this dish irresistible.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth, softening perfectly when cooked to enhance the sauce.
- Garlic: Offers a punch of aromatic earthiness that elevates the overall taste.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein star that makes this meal so filling and beefy.
- Salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note to the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: A savory splash that deepens the meaty richness.
- Tomato sauce: Forms the luscious tomato base, thickening and flavoring the dish wonderfully.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of tangy sweetness with their juices.
- Beef broth: Keeps the sauce moist while intensifying the beef flavor.
- Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that perfectly holds the sauce and cooks up tender.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into creamy pockets of cheesy goodness.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, green finish to brighten each bite.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, roughly 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds to release its wonderful fragrance without burning.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned all over. This step builds the rich, savory base flavor. If there’s excess grease, feel free to drain it out so your dish isn’t greasy.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Now, season the browned beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Each of these spices contributes a layer of taste that makes this old-fashioned goulash so memorable. Stir everything together well to coat the meat evenly.
Step 4: Add the Sauces and Broth
Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; this allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to develop a deeper color and taste.
Step 5: Cook the Macaroni
Once simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful sauce, soften beautifully, and the sauce will thicken to a perfect consistency.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish
If you love a cheesy twist, this is the moment to stir in shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into creamy pockets throughout the goulash, adding an irresistible richness. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch before serving.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of chopped parsley not only brightens up the presentation but adds a hint of freshness that balances the rich flavors of this goulash. If you’re feeling indulgent, a few extra spoonfuls of shredded cheddar on top serve as a delightful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
While this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a one-pot meal, it pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad, buttery dinner rolls, or steamed vegetables for added texture and nutrition. These sides keep the meal light and fresh without overshadowing the star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or scoop it over baked potatoes for a comforting presentation. You can also offer various cheese toppings and fresh herbs at the table, letting everyone customize their own bowls for a casual family-style vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe reheats beautifully, making it perfect for weekday lunches or quick dinners. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep all those flavors fresh and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting dish for longer, freeze the cooled goulash in freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the goulash gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through and piping hot. This way, it tastes just as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you may want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor.
Is it necessary to use elbow macaroni, or can I substitute another pasta?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to swap in other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid over- or undercooking.
Can I add vegetables to this goulash for extra nutrition?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach stirred in near the end of cooking add flavor, texture, and nutrients without overpowering the classic taste.
What if I want a spicier version of this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Add red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef or a splash of your favorite hot sauce when adding the tomato sauce for a nice kick of heat that complements the smoky paprika.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt it for slow cooking by browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic first, then combining all ingredients in the slow cooker and cooking on low for about 4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes to prevent it from getting mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a true classic that brings both comfort and joy to any table. Its simple ingredients and easy steps make it a perfect go-to meal that satisfies cravings and feeds a crowd effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this timeless favorite to your recipe box—it’s one you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with paprika and Italian herbs. This classic American dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect family dinner option.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Liquids and Pasta
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Optional Garnishes
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary to avoid a greasy dish.
- Season the Meat: Season the cooked beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices across the meat.
- Add Sauces and Broth: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: If using, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier dish, include red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
