Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

I still remember the first time I made Old‑Fashioned Goulash for my three kids—it was a rainy Tuesday, and we all desperately needed a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs dinner. As the savory aroma of beef, tomatoes, and paprika filled the kitchen, the kids gathered around, eager for that first spoonful. This Old‑Fashioned Goulash isn’t fancy—it’s pure comfort in a bowl. It reminds me that simple meals can bring big joy. Today, I’m sharing this Old‑Fashioned Goulash so your family can gather around the table feeling warm, nourished, and cared for.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe :

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table without a fuss. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make using pantry staples. The combination of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato base makes it the perfect comfort food. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and great for leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a big family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time. The best part? It all comes together in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with the people you love. Once you try it, this will become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

To make this classic Old-Fashioned Goulash, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions & Variations for Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is flexible. Don’t have ground beef? Use ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles. You can swap elbow macaroni for rotini or shells—whatever’s in your pantry. For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If your family prefers more veggies, stir in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Want it extra creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end. Goulash is forgiving, so feel free to play with the ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Making this Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe couldn’t be easier. Just follow these simple steps for a warm, hearty dinner:

1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low.
6. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and flavors meld.
7. Optional: Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips:

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease and keep the flavors balanced.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni—it continues to soften as it sits.
• For added depth, sauté a few tablespoons of tomato paste with the onions and garlic.
• Stir often after adding pasta to prevent sticking.
• Want a thicker goulash? Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end.
• Make it ahead—the flavors get even better the next day!

Storage & Reheating Tips for Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is excellent for leftovers. Store cooled goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave it in 60-second bursts, stirring between each.
For freezing: Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.

What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes the meal even better. Serve it with a crisp green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. Warm garlic bread or buttered dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the saucy goodness. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans also make excellent, wholesome companions. For something simple and kid-friendly, add a side of applesauce or fresh fruit. And if you’re going all in, a slice of homemade cornbread will never disappoint.

FAQs for Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	37g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	8g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	710mg

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