If you’re searching for true kitchen comfort, nothing hits the spot quite like Old-Fashioned Goulash. This timeless, one-pot wonder combines savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce into a dish that feels like an edible hug from grandma herself. Each forkful bursts with nostalgia, hearty flavors, and a creamy, cheesy finish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. Whether you’re cooking for your family or simply craving a taste of home, Old-Fashioned Goulash delivers warmth and satisfaction every single time.

Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Old-Fashioned Goulash is delightfully simple and most can be found right in your pantry or fridge. Each component serves a purpose, from the savory ground beef to the fragrant spices, creating layers of flavor and heartiness in every bite.

Ground beef: Go for 80/20 for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor in every bite.
Onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth, softening in the pan and infusing the dish with irresistible aroma.
Garlic (minced): Essential for that satisfying, savory punch—fresh cloves yield the boldest flavor.
Tomato sauce (15 oz): Forms the rich, tangy backbone of the sauce, coating every piece of pasta.
Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, undrained): Brings texture, juiciness, and little bursts of tomato goodness to every mouthful.
Elbow macaroni (1½ cups, uncooked): This classic pasta shape soaks up all the flavors and stays perfectly tender.
Beef broth or water (1 cup): Enhances flavor complexity; beef broth makes everything extra savory and comforting.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Just a splash adds incredible umami and depth—don’t skip it!
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like basil and oregano brings a fragrant, peppery note.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a gentle smokiness and that beautiful warm color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season confidently for the best possible flavor payoff.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): For a creamy, melty finish that makes this goulash extra comforting.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh, herby brightness right before serving.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onion

Grab your largest skillet or trusty Dutch oven and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, using a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns. As the beef cooks, the onions become beautifully soft and sweet, mingling their flavors together. If you end up with excess grease, feel free to drain it off to keep your goulash from feeling heavy.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant. This step is quick but vital—fresh garlic blooms in the heat, infusing every inch of your Old-Fashioned Goulash with its deep, irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and undrained diced tomatoes so you get all the juicy goodness. Add the beef broth or water, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine, letting all those flavors harmonize. As the mixture begins to bubble and simmer, your kitchen will fill with the most nostalgic, mouthwatering scent.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now comes the fun part—stir in your uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully immersed in the sauce. Cover the pot and let everything gently simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, occasionally stirring so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. The macaroni will soak up the flavorful sauce, becoming deliciously plump and tender as most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cheese (If Desired)

Love that creamy, melty touch? Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the bubbling goulash during the final 2 minutes of cooking, stirring gently until the cheese is smooth and velvety. It amplifies the dish’s coziness and makes each bite extra luscious. If not using cheese, simply skip this step and move on—your Old-Fashioned Goulash will still be absolutely fantastic!

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Take your pot off the heat and let it rest, uncovered, for about 5 minutes. This little pause allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring every spoonful is rich and satisfying. Finish with a shower of chopped fresh parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and brightness.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash

Garnishes

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash positively shines with a sprinkling of fresh parsley, which not only adds pretty color but a light herbal note that brightens every bite. For extra indulgence, try an extra handful of cheddar cheese, a twist of cracked black pepper, or even a scoop of sour cream on top.

Side Dishes

This dish is comforting and filling all on its own, but you can turn dinner into a true feast by pairing it with warm, crusty bread for sopping up all that flavorful sauce. A simple tossed green salad or some roasted veggies complete your plate and add balance, making for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve your Old-Fashioned Goulash in big, deep bowls for that extra-cozy vibe, or ladle it into ramekins topped with melted cheese for a fun, dinner-party twist. For potlucks or gatherings, pour the goulash into a casserole dish, sprinkle with extra cheddar, and let it bubble in the oven for a few minutes—it’ll be the hit of any buffet!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Old-Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep deliciously in the fridge for up to 4 days, ready to be enjoyed whenever hunger strikes.

Freezing

For longer storage, Old-Fashioned Goulash freezes well. Spoon cooled goulash into freezer-friendly containers or zip-top bags (make sure you squeeze out as much air as possible), and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, just pop individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce. For bigger batches, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat until everything is heated through. Stir occasionally to keep it creamy and avoid sticking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for Old-Fashioned Goulash, feel free to swap in shells, penne, or rotini—just keep an eye on the cooking time until your pasta is perfectly tender.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free. The result will still be just as comforting and tasty.

What can I add to bulk up the veggie content?

Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach make wonderful additions. Toss them in along with the onion to build even more flavor and nutrition into your Old-Fashioned Goulash.

Is it possible to make Old-Fashioned Goulash in advance?

It sure is! Goulash often tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance, cool, and store in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve. The flavors meld together beautifully over time.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?

Certainly—both work perfectly for a lighter version. You may want to add a smidge more seasoning since turkey and chicken are a bit milder than beef, but the dish will still be every bit as hearty and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to scoop up a generous bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash—so simple, so hearty, and so packed with the flavors of home. This is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again, perfect for busy nights or when you just need a little extra comfort. Give it a try and let it become a cozy classic in your kitchen!

Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal that combines ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and savory seasonings for a deliciously satisfying dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasonings:

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup beef broth or water
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add Flavor: Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Cook Pasta: Add macaroni, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Finish and Serve: Stir in cheese if desired, let rest, then garnish with parsley before serving.