There is something irresistibly comforting about a hearty, home-cooked meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied sighs. The Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is just that kind of dish — it’s a timeless classic that combines tender ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and tender elbow macaroni into one satisfying pot. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a warm hug in a bowl, this recipe delivers a truly nostalgic taste that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward but flavorful ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delicious Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe. Each component plays its part in layering texture, vibrant color, and mouthwatering taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base to cook the aromatics and richens the flavor.
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Delivers sweetness and depth when softened to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Injects bold, aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The hearty protein backbone providing richness and satisfying texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the savory elements evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Brings smoky warmth and a lovely red hue true to traditional goulash.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds complexity without fuss.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Acts as the luscious liquid base for a rich, tangy backdrop.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice: Provides bursts of fresh acidity and texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Deepens the savory notes and keeps the pasta perfectly moist.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The tender pasta that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, melty finish for extra comfort.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A bright, fresh contrast to the hearty stew.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the chopped yellow onion and let it cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook just for 30 seconds more to release its irresistible aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next up is the star protein. Add the ground beef to your pot along with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds the savory foundation of your Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe, so get that meat beautifully caramelized for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Season and Develop the Sauce
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir in the tomato paste. Cook everything together for about a minute, stirring so the tomato paste can toast slightly and deepen the flavor. Then pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Give it all a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Once simmering, stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and lower the heat to gently cook the pasta in the sauce for 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The noodles will swell with flavor and reach perfect tenderness.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese right at the end while the goulash is still hot. This adds a wonderfully creamy finish that melts into the sauce. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch here, adding a bright herbal note that contrasts with the rich, hearty base. If you want to switch things up, try a dollop of sour cream or a little grated Parmesan for extra tang and creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own as a satisfying meal, but consider pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some crispy crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables also make a lovely complement to balance out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe stuffed into bell peppers or top it with a fried egg to turn it into a comforting brunch option. You can even layer it in a casserole dish with extra cheese and bake until bubbly for a family-friendly baked goulash variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover goulash into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners the next day without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—ideal for meal prep or busy nights when you want comfort food fast.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the goulash gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best texture. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick before serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe without compromising flavor. Just brown it as you would the beef, and you’ll still have that satisfying texture and taste.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is dairy-free if you skip the shredded cheddar cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. It’s easy to adjust for dietary needs without losing the comforting essence of the dish.
How spicy is this goulash?
The warmth of paprika and black pepper provides gentle heat, but the dish isn’t spicy hot. If you want to add a kick, you can sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat substitutes or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. Keep the same seasonings and cooking method for a delicious twist.
What’s the best type of pasta to use?
Elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for soaking up the sauce. However, you can also use small shells, penne, or any short pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm kitchen hug and fills every corner of your home with inviting aromas, give this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe a try. It’s a timeless favorite that’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious. Trust me, once you enjoy this hearty one-pot wonder, it will become a staple in your recipe collection for cozy, satisfying dinners!
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with paprika and Italian herbs. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines familiar ingredients to create a classic American goulash that’s easy to prepare and full of rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot along with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Season and Stir: Stir in the Italian seasoning and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld and the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine all flavors.
- Cook Macaroni: Stir in the elbow macaroni, cover the pot, and let it cook over low heat for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated for a creamy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve the goulash hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during simmering.
- Ground beef can be swapped for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- The shredded cheddar cheese is optional but adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
