If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from your childhood kitchen, this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is just what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, tender elbow macaroni, and a medley of classic spices, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that delivers maximum flavor and nostalgia in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be humble, but each one plays a key role in building the rich, comforting, and well-balanced flavor of this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe. Together, they create that classic taste that’s both satisfying and wonderfully homestyle.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option): The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a subtle bite that enhances the overall savoriness.
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional): Delivers a fresh crunch and brightens the flavor profile.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and a juicy texture to the sauce.
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy consistency perfect for coating the pasta.
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): Adds savory moisture and enriches the sauce taste.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a deep umami flavor that rounds out the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that lift the overall aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional): Offers a warm, smoky hint without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The essential seasoning to bring all ingredients together.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta): The tender and chewy star that makes this goulash so satisfying.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping): Melts beautifully to add creamy richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness at the very end.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This not only develops rich flavors but also gives the base for your sauce a wonderful meaty depth. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat to keep things from feeling greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper if you’re using it, letting them soften and sweeten for 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a fragrant base that makes your kitchen smell irresistible, and the veggies add essential flavor layers that complement the beef.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now the magic really begins. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a lively boil and then lower the heat to let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to mingle and deepen, creating that signature goulash taste you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni straight into the pot and stir well to combine. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has sucked up some of the sauce’s delicious juices. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking throughout.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional!)
If you’re anything like me and love a melty cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the goulash now. Cover the pot for a few minutes to let the cheese melt into a gooey blanket that’s simply irresistible and adds a creamy texture contrast.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle on some fresh parsley if you like a hint of color and freshness. Serve your Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe hot, straight from the pot, for a soul-satisfying meal that feels both nostalgic and utterly comforting.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a simple and elegant garnish that adds a subtle burst of herbaceous aroma and a nice visual boost. For those who enjoy a little extra richness, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can elevate the dish even more.
Side Dishes
Serve this goulash alongside buttery garlic bread or a crisp green salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory main dish. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also make wonderful, easy accompaniments that balance out the comfort food vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy or feeding a crowd? Try scooping the goulash into individual oven-safe bowls, topping each with extra cheese, and broiling them for a few minutes until bubbly and golden. For a fun twist, serve it stuffed inside bell peppers or atop baked potatoes for a hearty and unique presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for best quality.
Freezing
To freeze, let the goulash cool completely then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and comforting meal anytime you want.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also microwave portions in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works wonderfully in this recipe without compromising flavor. Just brown it the same way you would beef.
Is it okay to skip the bell pepper?
Yes, the bell pepper is optional. It adds a nice crunch and sweetness, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have one on hand, you can simply leave it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety, and you’ll have a delicious, gluten-sensitive version of this classic goulash.
How spicy is this dish?
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is mild and comforting, with a subtle warmth from paprika if you choose to include it. You can adjust the seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want more heat.
What can I do if my goulash is too thick?
If you find the sauce too thick after cooking, simply stir in a bit more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. It should be saucy enough to coat the pasta nicely but not soupy.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the nostalgia and warmth that this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe brings to the table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. So grab your pot, get cooking, and enjoy this classic dish that never goes out of style—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that can be customized with optional bell peppers, cheese topping, and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and optional bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well to combine. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.
- Add Cheese (Optional): For a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the goulash. Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese can melt thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the goulash hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Bell pepper is optional but adds a nice sweetness and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning as preferred.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor or to make it suitable for pescatarians.
- Cheese is optional, but it adds a delicious creamy element when melted on top.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
