If you’re craving comforting, hearty, and downright delicious meals, this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a timeless gem you need in your weeknight dinner lineup. Packed with tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and cozy elbow macaroni, every bite is a warm hug that reminds you of family dinners and simple pleasures. It’s the perfect dish that balances rich flavors with an easy, no-fuss approach, making it an absolute favorite for busy nights and nostalgic palates alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this old-fashioned goulash is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in layering the flavors, adding texture, or enhancing the color of the final dish.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option): The protein base providing savory richness and heartiness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and an aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish without overpowering it.
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional): Brings a subtle sweetness and a pop of colorful freshness.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Offers juiciness and a pleasant tang to the sauce.
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, smooth base to envelop the pasta and beef.
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): Adds savory depth and ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a subtle umami boost that enriches every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a mild smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta): The perfect vehicle to soak up the saucy goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping): Melts over the top for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh contrast and a pop of color.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned and cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation for the dish, so be sure to brown the meat nicely for that rich, caramelized flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the goulash from being greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper if you’re using it. Sauté them in the pot with the browned beef until everything softens and becomes fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens the veggies and allows their flavors to meld beautifully with the meat, creating a wonderfully aromatic base.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
After the vegetables have softened, stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Follow this with Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all the savory and tangy flavors to blend into a luscious, thick sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta piece.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Now it’s time for the star of this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe: the elbow macaroni. Add the pasta directly into the pot and stir to combine. Cover and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the macaroni doesn’t stick to the bottom. The pasta will soak up the sauce, making each bite a delightful harmony of texture and flavor.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re dreaming of that classic cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash once the pasta is tender. Cover the pot for a few minutes so the cheese melts perfectly into warm, gooey goodness. This simple addition takes the dish from comforting to downright decadent.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if you like and ladle this heartwarming Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe into bowls. The inviting aroma and rich sauce make it irresistible straight from the pot — a true crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is more than just decoration here — it adds a pleasing herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the goulash. If you’re a cheese lover, a bit of extra shredded cheddar or even a dollop of sour cream can be heavenly toppings that elevate the dish.
Side Dishes
This goulash is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies can add a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, turning every meal into a cozy feast.
Creative Ways to Present
To switch things up, serve the Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe over mashed potatoes or alongside roasted root vegetables. You could also bake it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden crust that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover goulash keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better after a day or two. Just be sure to stir it before reheating to distribute the sauce evenly.
Freezing
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe freezes well if you want to stash it away for busy days. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover goulash gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce feels too thick. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure it warms thoroughly and retains its delicious texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and still absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the sauce. Just be mindful that it cooks a bit faster and can dry out, so keep an eye on your simmer time.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth and consider adding beans for extra protein to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What pasta works best in goulash besides elbow macaroni?
You can use any small pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as small shells, ditalini, or even small penne. The idea is to have pasta that mixes easily with the thick, tomatoey sauce.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Certainly! The sauce can be made a day or two before you add the pasta. Just reheat and add the cooked pasta when ready to serve. This is great for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners.
How can I make my Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe spicier?
For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes while simmering the sauce or mix in a dash of hot paprika. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce at the table can also bring the heat without overwhelming the traditional flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely special about this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe that makes it a cherished classic in any kitchen. Its comforting flavors and cozy textures invite you to slow down and savor the moment, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a quiet weekend dinner. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite comfort food that brings friends and family together time and time again.
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce infused with classic seasonings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dish topped optionally with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper (if using) to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well to combine. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Add cheese (optional): If you desire a cheesy finish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash. Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a creamy topping.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if using, and serve the goulash hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Bell pepper is optional; feel free to omit or substitute with other vegetables like mushrooms.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference; add more paprika or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Adding cheese is optional but highly recommended for extra creaminess.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
