Old-Fashioned Goulash

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty one-pot meal that’s rich in flavor and incredibly satisfying, this Old-Fashioned Goulash is the recipe for you. Made with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce, it’s a family favorite that’s stood the test of time. This dish is as nostalgic as it is delicious—perfect for weeknight dinners, leftovers, or a big-batch meal for gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for family dinners or leftovers.
Classic Comfort Food – Rich, saucy, and full of flavor.
Customizable – Easily add your favorite veggies or cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Goulash:
2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 ½ cups beef broth (low sodium)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Optional Add-ins:
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
1 tsp sugar (balances acidity, optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need
Large Dutch oven or deep skillet with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Grater (if adding cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat (if using lean beef).
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked—about 6-8 minutes.
Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot with the beef.
Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a light simmer and stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavorful sauce.
Add a splash more broth or water if needed to keep it saucy.

Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
If using cheese, stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt into the goulash.
Alternatively, sprinkle cheese over each bowl before serving.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot, with crusty bread or a green salad on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Goulash
Stir Frequently – Prevents pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Cook Pasta in Sauce – Infuses the noodles with extra flavor.
Add Cheese at the End – Keeps the texture gooey and melty.
Balance the Acidity – A pinch of sugar helps round out the tomato flavor.
Double Up – This recipe doubles easily and tastes even better the next day!

Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the rich sauce.
Side Salad – A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast.
Steamed Green Beans – A simple, healthy side.
Garlic Bread – Take it to the next level with a buttery, garlicky side.
Roasted Veggies – Great for adding extra nutrients to the meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work well—just adjust the cook time as needed.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Absolutely—just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
3. Is this dish spicy?
   Not as written, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to turn up the heat.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes! Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn are great additions.
5. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it covered in the fridge and reheat gently.

Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for feeding hungry families, cozy nights in, or preparing ahead for easy weeknight dinners. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavor, it’s no wonder this dish has been a staple for generations.

Try it once, and you’ll come back to this recipe again and again. Whether served on its own or with your favorite sides, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone around the table—smiling, satisfied, and asking for seconds.

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

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 430 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 580mg

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