Old Fashioned Goulash

Ever craved a bowl of comfort that takes you straight back to Grandma’s kitchen?

Old Fashioned Goulash is a delightful one-pot dish that warms your heart and fills your tummy. Picture tender elbow macaroni bathed in a rich, savory sauce, all topped with melted cheese if you fancy it. 🧀 It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening.

Why make this recipe

You’ll love making this goulash for a few reasons:

• Quick and easy: Seriously, it’s a one-pan wonder! No fancy kitchen gadgets needed.
• Family-approved: Kids generally love pasta, and let’s face it, adults do too.
• Wallet-friendly: Who doesn’t appreciate an affordable meal that stretches for leftovers? 🙋

Ingredients:

You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions:

Follow these easy steps to whip up your Old Fashioned Goulash:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the pasta is tender, around 10-12 minutes.
5. If desired, mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
6. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite bread!

How to make Old Fashioned Goulash (Overview)

This goulash comes together effortlessly! Start by browning your beef in a pot—don’t forget to drain that extra fat. Next up, sauté those onions, peppers, and garlic until they smell delicious. Toss in the rest of the ingredients, let it simmer, and voilà! 🍽️ Pro tip: Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking to the bottom.

How to serve Old Fashioned Goulash

Serve your goulash in colorful bowls, topped with extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up all that savory goodness. 🌈 Imagine the steam rising as you dig in, the aroma overflowing with hearty notes of garlic, beef, and spices. It’s just divine!

How to store Old Fashioned Goulash

Leftovers? Yes, please! Store your goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Planning ahead? It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot—life hack, right?

Tips to make Old Fashioned Goulash

• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini for a nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: A dash of hot sauce can take this to the next level!
• Skip the beef: Feel free to swap with ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding some chili powder for a Mexican twist or toss in some cooked sausage for a flavor bomb. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you love—who says we have to stick to rules?

FAQs

Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How do I freeze goulash?
Make sure it cools completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months!

Can I use different meat?
You bet! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats work great in this recipe.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Old Fashioned Goulash

A classic one-pot comfort dish featuring elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a rich savory sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes With juices.
• 2 cups beef broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce Adds depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons paprika Smoked paprika can be used for a smokier flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Feel free to use fresh herbs.
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni Can substitute with any pasta shape.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) Use for topping if desired.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Cooking

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the pasta is tender, around 10-12 minutes.
3. If desired, mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
4. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite bread!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.