Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Here's a rich and comforting take on Old Fashioned Goulash, a dish that brings back childhood memories of warm kitchens and cozy family dinners. This classic one-pot meal is packed with tender beef, hearty macaroni, and a rich, savory tomato sauce that simmers to perfection.

I first learned this recipe from my grandmother, who would make a big pot whenever we visited. The aroma of simmering garlic and tomatoes filled the house, making it impossible to wait for dinner. Now, it's a go-to meal in my own home, especially on busy nights when I need something easy yet satisfying.

There's something magical about a dish that comes together effortlessly while delivering so much flavor. Keep reading to see why this Old Fashioned Goulash deserves a place in your recipe collection.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to enjoy a meal that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This goulash is a true lifesaver for anyone looking for a quick, hearty, and budget-friendly dinner.

First, it's a one-pot wonder. No need to juggle multiple dishes—everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

It's also incredibly budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and pasta, you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

Another great thing about this recipe? It’s comforting and nostalgic. Whether you grew up eating goulash or you're trying it for the first time, the rich, tomatoey goodness combined with tender beef and pasta will feel like a warm hug.

Finally, it's versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it perfect for picky eaters or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role in making this dish so comforting and delicious.

Ground beef is the star of the dish, bringing richness and depth to every bite. I prefer using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you'd like a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too.

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for goulash. Its small size and ridged surface hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you're out of macaroni, rotini or small shells make great substitutes.

Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes create the rich, savory base of this dish. The combination gives the goulash a thick, hearty consistency while adding just the right amount of tangy sweetness. For extra depth, fire-roasted tomatoes are a fantastic option.

Onion and garlic add an essential layer of flavor, giving the goulash that classic homemade taste. If you're short on time, a teaspoon of garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic, but fresh is always best!

To season, paprika, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce work together to give the dish a deep, slightly smoky, and well-rounded flavor. A splash of soy sauce can also enhance the umami notes if you're looking for an extra punch.

A large pot or Dutch oven is the only special equipment you’ll need. It allows everything to cook evenly while locking in all those delicious flavors.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making Old Fashioned Goulash is as simple as it gets, and everything comes together in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup.

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the base of flavor, so don’t rush it!

Once the aromatics are ready, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Now, it’s time to add the beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir well, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

After the pasta has softened and absorbed all the delicious flavors, remove the pot from the heat. Give it a final stir, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly, and serve hot.

This entire meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, storing and reheating this goulash is incredibly simple.

For the fridge, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better over time, making it an excellent meal-prep option.

For the freezer, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Old Fashioned Goulash is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste and dietary needs.

For a healthier twist, swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

If you love spice, add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. A few drops of hot sauce stirred in at the end can also bring a nice kick.

Vegetarians can enjoy this dish too! Simply omit the meat and replace it with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying.

Want to boost the veggies? Stir in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These add both nutrition and a pop of color to the dish.

Cheese lovers can top their goulash with shredded cheddar or Parmesan for an extra layer of indulgence. Stirring in a little cream cheese or heavy cream at the end can also create a richer, creamier sauce.

This goulash is all about making it your own, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect version!

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