There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash. This classic one-pot meal has been a staple in American kitchens for generations, bringing together simple ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need an easy meal for a busy weeknight, this goulash recipe is sure to satisfy.
With its rich tomato sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked macaroni, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and requires minimal cleanup. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.
If you love classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Old Fashioned Goulash is just what you need. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and heartiness to your table with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Meal: Less mess, less cleanup—just simple and delicious.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like pasta, beef, and tomatoes.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with different meats, seasonings, or added veggies.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients Overview
This goulash recipe uses common ingredients you likely already have. Ground beef provides a hearty base, while tomatoes and seasonings build a flavorful sauce. Elbow macaroni soaks up all the delicious flavors, and a sprinkle of cheese adds a creamy touch. You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different proteins.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook while breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir and cook for about 2–3 minutes. The onions should soften, and the garlic will become fragrant. Keep stirring to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Seasonings
Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Cheese (Optional)
If using cheese, stir half of it into the goulash until melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the pot for 2–3 minutes to let it melt completely before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pot from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious, homemade goulash!
Tips for the Best Recipe
- For a Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Parmesan, or a cheese blend.
- Add Vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas make great additions.
- Enhance the Flavor: A splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar deepens the taste.
Variations to Try
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and sauté onions before adding everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes.
- Turkey or Chicken Goulash: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Use plant-based ground meat or extra veggies like zucchini and carrots.
- Cheesy Baked Goulash: Transfer cooked goulash to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
2. How can I make this goulash spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
3. Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the onions first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or carrots work well. Add them when cooking the beef and onions.
5. What can I serve with goulash?
Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let the goulash cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for any night of the week.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you liked it! Follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for more delicious and easy meal ideas.
