Old Fashioned Goulash

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with a classic Old Fashioned Goulash that combines tender ground beef, savory tomatoes, and flavorful spices for a hearty, comforting dish. This one-pot meal is quick to prepare and is perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends, bringing back nostalgic tastes while satisfying your appetite.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-12-13T07:02:38.387Z

This Old Fashioned Goulash is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It's a simple yet delicious recipe that's perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love It
        Quick and easy to make in one pot
Perfect for weeknight dinners
Brings back nostalgic flavors
Savory and satisfying

      

A Comforting Classic

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that evokes nostalgia for many. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and pasta in a savory tomato sauce creates a satisfying experience that reminds people of family dinners. Often enjoyed during cooler months, it's the perfect dish to serve at gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, one bite of this goulash will take you back to simpler times.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this goulash is quick to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner with the family or a gathering with friends, it's a dish that everyone will enjoy. Its hearty nature ensures that it can feed a crowd, making it a go-to option for potlucks and informal celebrations. You can easily double the recipe to accommodate larger groups, ensuring that no one leaves the table hungry.

The one-pot nature of this goulash means less cleanup, making it a hassle-free option for busy nights. You can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. This delicious meal not only satisfies your hunger but also fosters connection through shared experiences around the dinner table.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of Old Fashioned Goulash is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you're looking to make it healthier, swap out the elbow macaroni for whole-grain pasta or use lean ground turkey instead of beef. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this classic dish your own.

Additionally, feel free to include other vegetables. Chopped carrots, corn, or even spinach can be added to the mix, enhancing both the nutrition and flavor of the goulash. This adaptation not only keeps the meal exciting but also allows you to use up any vegetables you have on hand, minimizing waste while maximizing deliciousness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your goulash:

Cook the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft.

Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Cook the Goulash

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked and the sauce is thickened.

Your Old Fashioned Goulash is now ready to be served! Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Goulash

To achieve the best flavor in your goulash, consider browning the ground beef with a pinch of salt and some pepper to enhance its taste. This simple step adds depth to the overall dish. When sautéing the vegetables, allow them to soften well, which will release their natural sweetness and infuse the goulash with aromatic flavor. It's all about layers of taste that come together beautifully.

As the goulash simmers, ensure you stir it occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Monitoring the mixture helps achieve the desired consistency, ensuring you end up with a saucy, satisfying dish. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is fully cooked, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to adjust the texture.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Old Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors intact, place it in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore its consistency, as the pasta can absorb some of the liquid as it sits. Microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the goulash. Many people find that it freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired for a quick and comforting meal.