Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

Easy Old-Fashioned Goulash

Few recipes capture the warmth and simplicity of home cooking like this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe. With just a few pantry staples, you can make a hearty and delicious meal that’s as comforting as it is budget-friendly.
This one-pot wonder brings together ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and elbow macaroni in a savory, seasoned sauce that fills your kitchen with the smell of nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is simple to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy families.

Quick Recipe Overview

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: All pantry staples that come together quickly for an affordable meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Classic Comfort: A hearty mix of beef, pasta, and tomato sauce that’s loved by all ages.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Add extra vegetables, adjust the spices, or make it cheesy with a sprinkle of cheddar.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Stores and reheats beautifully for lunches or meal prep.

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Old-Fashioned Goulash

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• Author: Laurel
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), water, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix well.

4. Bring to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir to distribute evenly.

5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the macaroni is tender and sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired, let it melt, and serve hot.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for a lighter version or add half sausage for richer flavor.

Substitute half the water with beef broth for added depth.

Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

Top with extra cheese before serving for a creamy finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Ingredient Tips Table

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
   Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), water, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Add Macaroni:
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir to evenly distribute.
5. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the macaroni is cooked and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Season and Serve:
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired, let it melt, and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

• Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from clumping.
• Substitute half the water with beef broth for deeper flavor.
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Simmer gently: A slow simmer helps the flavors blend beautifully.
• Customize the texture: For a thicker goulash, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Double the batch: It freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Goulash: Stir in extra cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy finish.
• Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Vegetable Goulash: Replace beef with lentils or add extra vegetables.
• Italian Goulash: Use Italian sausage instead of beef and top with parmesan.

If you love cozy, family-style dinners like this one, you’ll also enjoy my Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid Recipe. It’s a golden, flaky crescent braid filled with creamy chicken and vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

Make this recipe ahead by cooking it fully, then cooling and storing it in an airtight container. It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your goulash hot with a slice of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy this comforting dish with a glass of red wine like Merlot or Cabernet, or a cold iced tea. For dessert, pair it with something light like vanilla pudding or apple crisp.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make goulash ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats perfectly, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely, shells, penne, or rotini all work great in this recipe.

3. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and soy sauce alternatives.

4. Can I add cheese inside the goulash?
Yes, stir in cheese before serving for a creamy, cheesy texture.

5. How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or spicy diced tomatoes.

6. What side dishes go best with goulash?
Garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies make perfect sides.

7. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, both are great lean alternatives for a lighter version.

Nutrition Info

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

Author’s Note

Hola! This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe brings back the cozy family dinners I grew up with in Florida, where hearty meals meant comfort and connection. I love how this dish blends classic American flavors with a hint of Italian influence, creating a budget-friendly, heartwarming meal that always satisfies.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort dish that never fails to please. Whether for Sunday dinner or a busy weeknight, it’s hearty, flavorful, and made with love.