If there’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening, it’s Old-Fashioned Goulash. This comforting classic brings together tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar for a one-pot meal that’s hearty, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible. Every spoonful is packed with savory flavors and a cozy, down-home feel that has made it a staple on family tables for generations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Old-Fashioned Goulash plays an essential part, making it a true symphony of taste, texture, and color. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no fancy extras, just pure comfort food basics that always deliver big flavor.
- Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for soaking up all the savory sauce and holding just the right bite.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps you get that perfect, golden-brown sear on the beef and onion.
- Ground beef: The heart of the dish, hearty and protein-packed, bringing robust flavor and texture.
- Large onion (diced): Offers gentle sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses the pot with that unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma.
- Tomato sauce (canned): Provides a silky, tangy foundation that ties everything together.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Adds juicy pops of tomato flavor and a little texture to the sauce.
- Beef broth: Enhances the meaty depth and gives the sauce just the right amount of savoriness.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash of umami that brings out the best in every bite.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs for layers of comforting flavor.
- Paprika: Provides gentle warmth and that signature goulash color.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple, but absolutely essential for brightening all the flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For extra creaminess and a melty finish—completely optional, but highly recommended!
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, but make sure to pull it off the heat just shy of fully cooked—al dente is the magic word. Drain the pasta and set it aside; it will finish absorbing all that saucy flavor later in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Onion
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Toss in your ground beef and diced onion. Sauté, breaking up the beef as you go, until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds the rich, savory base for your Old-Fashioned Goulash and fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about 30 seconds—enough to let its flavor bloom without burning. Next, add your tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then dial down the heat and let it all simmer. This is where the flavors mingle and develop that crave-worthy depth.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Bring back your cooked macaroni and stir it right into the pot with the simmering sauce. Let it heat through so every noodle gets beautifully coated. For an extra layer of comfort, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover until it melts into gooey, golden perfection. Serve hot and savor the classic goodness!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash
Garnishes
Some chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese gives your Old-Fashioned Goulash a final pop of color and a hint of freshness that makes every bowl inviting. A dollop of sour cream or a pinch of smoked paprika can also dress things up nicely.
Side Dishes
This dish truly shines with simple sides—think a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or warm, crusty bread perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Steamed green beans or buttered peas are also wonderful for a splash of green alongside your goulash.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little fun, serve your Old-Fashioned Goulash in oven-safe bowls topped with cheese, then broil until bubbly. Or, offer a “goulash bar” at your next gathering, letting guests customize their bowls with toppings like chopped scallions, shredded cheese, or hot sauce for a personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your goulash to an airtight container and store in the fridge. It’ll keep beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors only get deeper and richer as they meld.
Freezing
Old-Fashioned Goulash freezes like a dream! Let it cool completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe bags or containers (leaving a little space for expansion). It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently defrost in the microwave.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through, and top with a bit of fresh cheese or herbs to revive its original charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small shells, rotini, or penne all work beautifully in Old-Fashioned Goulash, soaking up the sauce and holding their shape well.
Is there a way to make Old-Fashioned Goulash spicier?
If you love heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onion and beef. A little extra paprika (especially smoked paprika) also gives it a gentle kick.
Can I make this Old-Fashioned Goulash dairy-free?
Definitely. The cheese is completely optional. Just leave it out or substitute your favorite non-dairy cheese. The dish is just as delicious and comforting without it.
What’s the difference between this and Hungarian goulash?
Old-Fashioned Goulash is an American classic, typically made with ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce, unlike Hungarian goulash which is a rich beef stew thickened with paprika and served over noodles or potatoes.
Can I add vegetables to the goulash?
Of course! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, or peas can all be stirred in with the sauce for extra nutrition, color, and flavor. Just adjust the simmer time as needed to ensure everything is tender.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a true taste of home, a dish that wraps you up in nostalgia and coziness, give Old-Fashioned Goulash a spot at your table. It’s simple, adaptable, and sure to win over everyone who scoops up a bowl—so tie on that apron and let the comfort cooking begin!
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic American comfort food dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni in a flavorful sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Macaroni:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Goulash:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook macaroni al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Goulash: Brown beef and onion in a pot, add garlic, then stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Combine: Add cooked macaroni to the sauce, heat through, and top with cheddar cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika instead of regular.
- This dish reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
