Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that has been cherished in kitchens for generations. This simple yet flavorful meal is made with ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, simmered together to create a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite. Goulash is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and filling.
While it’s often associated with Hungarian cuisine, the American version of goulash is quite different. Instead of the paprika-laden stew of Hungary, American goulash uses ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, making it a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare. This version became popular during the 20th century as an affordable, family-friendly dinner. Today, it’s a classic comfort food that many households continue to enjoy.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 6-8 people
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Type of Meal: Dinner
- Meal Classification: Hearty Meal, Comfort Food
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Goulash
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:
- Ground Beef: 1 1/2 pounds (lean ground beef works best)
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups, uncooked
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 (15 oz) can
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 oz) can
- Beef Broth or Water: 2 cups (for added flavor and to cook the pasta)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (for a deeper flavor)
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (optional for topping)
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, but if using regular ground beef, drain the fat after browning.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini or penne.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth to the sauce, but water can be used in a pinch.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, break it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until no longer pink.Tip: For a more savory flavor, let the beef develop a little crust before stirring too much. This adds richness to the dish.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened.Tip: The onions and garlic bring out a sweet, aromatic base for the dish, complementing the tomatoes and beef.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.Tip: The Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami flavor, while the paprika gives a subtle warmth that balances the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Step 3: Add the Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the goulash simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add more broth or water.
Step 4: Serve
Once the pasta is cooked through, give the goulash a final taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top before serving.
Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
Tips for Making the Best Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer before adding the pasta helps the flavors to develop. The longer you let it cook, the richer the flavor will be.
- Use Fresh Spices: If your paprika or Italian seasoning has been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider refreshing it with a new batch. Fresh spices make a big difference in the flavor.
- Customize the Recipe: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a heartier version. You can also swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Variations of Old-Fashioned Goulash
Spicy Goulash
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot paprika to give the dish a spicy kick. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy Goulash
For a cheesier version, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at the end, allowing it to melt into the sauce. This creates a creamy, gooey texture that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
Vegetarian Goulash
Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or use lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also load up the dish with extra vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and spinach to make it hearty and filling.
Nutritional Information for Old-Fashioned Goulash
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
This dish is well-balanced, offering a good source of protein from the beef and fiber from the pasta. To reduce calories, you can use leaner meat or cut back on the cheese topping.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is the perfect complement to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the goulash.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the goulash with roasted zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthy side.
If you love hearty dishes like Goulash, you might also enjoy our Classic Spaghetti Carbonara, a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for dinner . Or for a twist on comfort food, try the Philly Cheese Steak Quesadillas , packed with cheesy goodness and savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make goulash ahead of time?
Yes! Goulash stores well and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I freeze goulash?
Absolutely. Let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
What’s the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash is a stew made with beef, paprika, and vegetables, whereas American goulash is more of a pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni. Both are delicious but have very different flavors and textures.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin after cooking, let the goulash simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water if you need to thicken it quickly.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Its rich tomato sauce, savory beef, and tender pasta make it a go-to comfort food, especially during colder months. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with vegetables.
If you’ve tried this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out more comforting dishes like our Canned Salmon Patties or the flavorful Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad .