Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings. This classic American version of goulash is a simple, one-pot meal that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under an hour.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
• Family Favorite: A comforting, nostalgic dish that both kids and adults love.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Elbow macaroni
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni and let it cook directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Simmer: Allow the goulash to simmer until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Remove bay leaves.
6. Serve: If desired, top with shredded cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Cheesy Version: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy texture.
• Turkey Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze goulash in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

FAQs

How is American goulash different from Hungarian goulash?

American goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish, while Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked stew with chunks of beef and a rich paprika-based sauce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except pasta) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cooked pasta before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use rotini, penne, or any small pasta shape.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve with goulash?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or steamed vegetables.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente, and avoid overcooking. If making ahead, cook the pasta separately and mix it in before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to simmer longer to achieve the same depth of flavor as canned tomatoes.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, as long as you skip the optional shredded cheese topping.

Can I add beans for extra protein?

Absolutely! Kidney beans or black beans make a great addition.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Let the goulash simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or add a cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, this one-pot meal is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner with your loved ones!

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