Name: Old Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 small onion diced; 2 garlic cloves minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Old Fashioned Goulash brings back warm memories of family dinners at my grandma’s house where the kitchen always smelled like simmering tomato sauce and the table was never without a big pot of something hearty. One night when I needed to stretch a few ingredients into a full meal I turned to this classic and it delivered just like it always had comforting filling and wonderfully nostalgic.

What I love about this dish is how easy it is to throw together with pantry staples and how every bite tastes like it’s been cooking all day even though it only takes about 30 minutes. The ground beef the noodles and that rich tomato sauce come together in such a homey way it’s no wonder it’s been a family favorite for generations.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Ground beef – The heart of the dish that adds meaty richness and flavor.
Elbow macaroni – Classic and sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the meat.
Garlic – Brings in warm aromatic flavor to the sauce base.
Tomato sauce – The main component of the rich tangy sauce.
Diced tomatoes – Adds texture and extra tomato goodness.
Beef broth – Gives the sauce depth and keeps it moist.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory umami punch to balance the tomatoes.
Paprika – A gentle smoky note that warms up the whole dish.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to round out the flavors.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Optional but melts perfectly on top.
Fresh parsley – A bright garnish that adds color and freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or Dutch oven – For browning the meat and simmering the sauce.
Pot – To cook the macaroni until just right.
Wooden spoon – Great for stirring the sauce and mixing everything together.
Measuring cups – For portioning the broth and tomato ingredients.
Cheese grater – If you’re using fresh cheddar on top.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by boiling a large pot of water then I cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente so it doesn’t get too soft in the sauce.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks I heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef with chopped onion. I cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft.

Step 3:

I stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds just until fragrant then I add the tomato sauce diced tomatoes beef broth Worcestershire sauce paprika salt and pepper.

Step 4:

I let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly and let all the flavors blend together while stirring occasionally.

Step 5:

Once the pasta is drained I stir it right into the skillet with the sauce and mix everything until evenly combined.

Step 6:

I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if I’m in the mood for extra creaminess then I garnish with parsley and serve it warm.

Tips

I sometimes add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want to give it a little kick. This recipe also works great with ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking to change it up. And if you like your goulash extra saucy just increase the broth and tomato sauce slightly!

Ways to Serve

Old Fashioned Goulash is a complete meal on its own but I love serving it with garlic bread or a slice of buttered toast on the side. For veggies I pair it with a side salad or some roasted green beans. It also keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days and makes an excellent lunch the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash?

Yes just cool it completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What’s the best pasta for Old Fashioned Goulash?

Elbow macaroni is the classic but rotini or cavatappi work great too.

Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash in advance?

Absolutely it reheats well and the flavors only get better the next day.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Old Fashioned Goulash and let it become part of your comfort food collection just like it is in mine. It’s simple satisfying and full of flavor the kind of meal that just feels like home. Let me know how you make it your own!

Happy Cooking!