Old Fashioned Goulash

There’s something so comforting about a big, hearty pot of Old Fashioned Goulash. Imagine walking into your kitchen on a chilly evening, the smell of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and onions filling the air, and knowing that in less than an hour, you’ll be biting into warm, cheesy, perfectly seasoned pasta. This isn’t just a meal—it’s nostalgia served on a plate. Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside out, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or simply satisfying those “I need comfort food now” cravings.

Why you’ll love this recipe? Because it’s classic, it’s forgiving, and it’s ridiculously delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this Old Fashioned Goulash delivers flavor, warmth, and that unbeatable sense of home.

Recipe Origin

Goulash originally hails from Hungary, but over the decades, it has traveled and transformed. In the United States, the “American Goulash” or “Old Fashioned Goulash” became a household favorite—ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and a hearty dose of love. It’s simpler than the Hungarian stew, but equally satisfying. This dish has stood the test of time because it’s approachable, versatile, and universally adored.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large pot for pasta (optional, if cooking separately)
• Baking dish or oven-safe skillet (optional for cheesy topping)

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Goulash

This recipe isn’t just about ingredients—it’s about creating moments around the table. Here’s why it’s a perennial favorite:

Versatile: Great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a meal that satisfies a crowd. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a dinner that practically cooks itself while you unwind.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and ingredients you likely already have in your fridge. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to create a meal that tastes indulgent.

Quick and Easy: Minimal steps, minimal stress, and maximum flavor. Even if you’re not a confident cook, this recipe is almost foolproof.

Customizable: Tweak it to your taste! Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth. Prefer it cheesy? Load on extra cheddar.

Crowd-Pleasing: Kids love it, adults love it, and it even makes excellent leftovers. With its familiar flavors and comforting textures, it’s hard not to be a fan.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Brown the Beef Well: Let the ground beef get a little caramelized—it adds flavor and depth to the sauce.
2. Onion and Garlic Harmony: Don’t rush sautéing onions and garlic; letting them soften slowly brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Simmer Slowly: Low and slow is the key for melding all the tomato, seasoning, and beef flavors together.
4. Cheese Last: Stir in the cheddar just before serving, or sprinkle it on top and let it melt under the broiler for a bubbly, golden finish.
5. Pasta Timing: Make sure pasta is al dente; it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, preventing it from getting mushy.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind Old Fashioned Goulash—simple, familiar, and flavorful ingredients that combine to make comfort food perfection:

Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. Lean beef keeps it hearty without being greasy.

Yellow Onions: Add sweetness and depth to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Garlic: Aromatic and bold, it elevates the sauce with a savory punch.

Water & Beef Broth: Forms the base of the sauce, ensuring it’s rich and flavorful.

Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: Brings a luscious, tangy flavor and the classic red hue.

Italian Seasoning & Oregano: These herbs give a familiar, homey aroma that makes every bite comforting.

Bay Leaves: Subtle, fragrant, and essential for that deep, slow-cooked flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and a slightly tangy umami boost.

Salt, Pepper & Garlic Powder: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients.

Elbow Macaroni: Classic, tender, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Cheddar Cheese: Melty, creamy, and irresistible—makes the goulash extra comforting.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to make this hearty, cheesy delight:

Preheat Your Equipment: If you plan to finish in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Otherwise, a stovetop skillet works beautifully.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté chopped onions over medium heat until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant—just a minute or two.

Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and slightly caramelized, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the sauce rich but not greasy.

Combine Liquids: Pour in water and beef broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the pan.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is well incorporated.

Simmer Slowly: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20–30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking.

Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove bay leaves from the sauce. Stir the cooked pasta into the simmering sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated with the rich, savory goodness.

Cheese Finish: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top. Stir gently to melt, or place under a broiler for a bubbly, golden cheese layer.

Serve and Enjoy: Dish up your Old Fashioned Goulash while it’s warm and gooey. Pair with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Each bite is hearty, comforting, and utterly satisfying.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: Approx. 450–500
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that enhance the flavors:

Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the goulash.

Crusty Bread: Warm bread is perfect for scooping up every bit of cheesy sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or green beans add color and nutrients to the plate.

As a Standalone: Sometimes, goulash is hearty enough to enjoy solo—melted cheese, tender beef, and noodles make it perfectly satisfying.

Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh parsley or a dash of paprika to elevate presentation and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop onions and garlic in advance for a quick weekday meal. Store in airtight containers in the fridge.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain texture.

Freeze It: Old Fashioned Goulash freezes beautifully. Freeze in portion-sized containers and thaw overnight before reheating.

Double the Batch: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd—this recipe scales up easily.

Variations to Try

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Mix in a little smoked paprika or chili powder for a slightly spicier kick.
• Use different pasta shapes like penne or rotini to change up the texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, though beef adds a richer flavor.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to keep pasta from becoming mushy.

Q4: Can I freeze goulash?
A4: Yes! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q6: Can I make it ahead for a party?
A6: Definitely. Cook the sauce and pasta separately, then combine just before serving.

Q7: Can I use canned diced tomatoes with seasonings added?
A7: Yes! Just adjust salt and spices since some canned tomatoes are already seasoned.

Q8: How do I get extra cheesy goulash?
A8: Mix in half of the cheddar during the cooking process and sprinkle the rest on top just before serving.

Q9: Can I cook it all in one pot?
A9: Yes! Brown the meat, add liquids, and cook pasta directly in the sauce for one-pot convenience.

Q10: How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
A10: Cook pasta al dente and combine with sauce just before serving. Avoid overcooking in the sauce.

Conclusion

There you have it—classic, comforting, and downright delicious Old Fashioned Goulash. From tender ground beef and savory tomatoes to perfectly cooked noodles and melted cheddar, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients done right. It’s hearty enough for dinner, cozy enough for cold nights, and versatile enough for leftovers or entertaining. Make it your own with your favorite herbs or extra veggies, and enjoy every bite. Roll up your sleeves, simmer that sauce, and get ready to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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