Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic, comforting dish that combines ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and simple spices for a hearty, one-pot meal. This nostalgic recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and is loved by everyone. With tender macaroni, flavorful beef, and a rich tomato sauce, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a true comfort food, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.

Goulash has its roots in Central European cuisine, traditionally made by Hungarian herdsmen. Over time, it has evolved and taken on different forms in various countries. The American version of goulash, also known as “American Chop Suey,” has become a beloved staple in households across the United States. It’s a simple, budget-friendly dish that uses basic pantry ingredients, making it accessible and easy to prepare. This recipe focuses on the classic flavors while allowing room for customization to suit your preferences.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Goulash
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease. Cooking the beef and onion together helps infuse the meat with the sweet and savory flavors of the onion, creating a rich base for the dish.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The combination of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste gives the dish a deep, well-rounded tomato flavor. Worcestershire sauce adds an umami richness that enhances the overall taste of the goulash.
3. Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all the flavors, making it extra delicious. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
4. Add Cheese (Optional): If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. The cheese adds a creamy richness to the dish, making it even more comforting. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely texture and flavor that many people enjoy.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and let the goulash sit for 5 minutes before serving. Letting the dish rest allows the flavors to meld together and gives the sauce time to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Goulash

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this recipe to reduce excess grease. If you’re using a higher-fat content beef, be sure to drain the grease thoroughly after cooking to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
• Stir Occasionally: Stir the goulash occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This also ensures even cooking and helps incorporate all the flavors throughout the dish.
• Season to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your preference. Some people like to add a little sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes—feel free to adjust based on your taste.
• Simmer for Richer Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, let the tomato mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes before adding the pasta. This allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Goulash: Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. You can also add a handful of spinach at the end for some added greens.
• Spicy Goulash: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Goulash: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese along with the cheddar for an extra cheesy version. You can also top the goulash with cheese and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Mexican-Inspired Goulash: Replace the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, and add a can of drained black beans and a cup of corn for a Mexican twist. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped cilantro.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. The seasonings will still provide a rich flavor, and the texture will be just as satisfying.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as rotini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender. Keep in mind that different types of pasta may absorb liquid differently, so you might need to add a little more broth.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Q: Can I freeze goulash?
A: Yes, you can freeze goulash. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Freezing is a great option if you want to make a big batch and save some for later.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve the goulash with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the goulash, providing a refreshing contrast.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The bread adds a satisfying crunch and helps make the meal more filling.
• With Pickles: Add some dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast. The acidity of the pickles complements the rich, savory flavors of the goulash beautifully.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. The herbs add a light, fragrant element that brightens up the dish.

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a nostalgic, hearty dinner. With tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, this goulash is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the depth of flavor, makes it an ideal dish for feeding a hungry family. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses. Give this classic recipe a try and enjoy the warm, home-cooked flavors in every bite!

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, Old Fashioned Goulash is a dish that will bring people together. Its hearty and satisfying nature makes it a true comfort food classic. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll love it just as much as you do!