If you’ve been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that warms the soul and satisfies the whole family, you’ve just found it with this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe. This timeless dish features tender ground beef simmered with rich tomatoes and Italian seasoning, all lovingly mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. It’s a humble, straightforward recipe that brings layers of flavor and texture in every bite, making it a true classic for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a little taste of nostalgia.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic in this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe comes from a handful of simple, yet crucial ingredients. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the hearty flavors, creamy texture, and vibrant colors that make this dish so inviting.
- 1 lb ground beef: The rich, savory base that adds protein and hearty texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened with the beef.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a subtle punch.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Provides a smooth, tangy foundation for the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that lifts the whole dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into a creamy topping for extra richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Let the beef brown fully and the onions soften, releasing their natural sweetness. This combination forms the hearty base for the goulash. Remember to drain any excess grease after cooking to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Sauce, Diced Tomatoes, and Seasoning
Next, stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, bringing tomato goodness to every corner of the skillet. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then season generously with salt and pepper. Letting this simmer for about 10 minutes allows all those flavors to come together in harmony, creating a luscious, well-rounded sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Elbow Macaroni and Combine
While your sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until perfectly tender but still firm to the bite. Drain it well and then stir the pasta straight into the meat and tomato sauce mixture. This step really ties the dish together, coating each macaroni piece with that rich, savory sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese for Extra Creaminess (Optional)
If you love a little melty cheese goodness, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top of the goulash at this point. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt into the warm mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a delightful richness that takes this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe to the next level.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a cheerful flash of green and a hint of herby brightness. Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, for all the warmth and comfort it has to offer.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the perfect garnish to brighten this dish visually and with a fresh herbal note. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream on the side for added creaminess or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for those cheese lovers in the crowd.
Side Dishes
Old-Fashioned Goulash pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty bread or garlic bread is another fantastic side, perfect for mopping up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash in individual ramekins topped with grated cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. You can also transform it into a casserole dish by baking it with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for texture contrast. It’s a versatile dish that adapts well to your presentation style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe, just place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers just as enjoyable.
Freezing
This goulash freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. You can also microwave leftovers covered with a damp paper towel, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times since turkey can dry out faster than beef.
Is the cheddar cheese necessary?
The cheddar cheese is optional, but it adds a wonderful creamy, melty layer that many people love. You can skip it or try other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety, and make sure any added ingredients like seasoning blends do not contain gluten.
How spicy is this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting by default, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot paprika if you want to give it a little kick.
What is the best way to reheat goulash without drying it out?
Reheat slowly over low heat while stirring often to maintain moisture. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps keep the sauce from drying out.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe a try because it’s one of those soul-satisfying dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward, uses ingredients you likely have on hand, and delivers big on flavor and comfort. Whether shared with family or savored on your own, it’s a delicious reminder that some classics are timeless for a reason. Happy cooking!
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish featuring seasoned ground beef and tender elbow macaroni in a rich tomato sauce, topped with optional melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Garnishes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onions become soft. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld and deepen.
- Cook the Elbow Macaroni: While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni separately according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and then stir it into the meat and tomato sauce mixture in the skillet.
- Optional – Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the goulash. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes off heat or on very low to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the goulash hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Drain excess grease from the beef to reduce fat content.
- Use sharp cheddar for more pronounced cheese flavor.
- The dish can be reheated well for leftovers the next day.
- Optionally, add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
