Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, simple, hearty, and deeply nostalgic. Made with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and warm seasonings, this one-pot meal has been a family favorite for generations. It’s cozy, filling, and incredibly easy to make with pantry staples.
Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or feeding a hungry crowd, this old-school goulash delivers big flavor with minimal effort. One bite brings back memories of home-cooked meals and comforting dinners around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Meal – Easy cooking and easy cleanup.
- Classic Comfort Food – Old-fashioned, familiar flavors.
- Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly – Simple, affordable ingredients.
- Hearty & Filling – Protein, pasta, and sauce in one dish.
- Perfect for Leftovers – Even better the next day.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add Aromatics:
Add diced onion and garlic.
Cook until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Pasta:
Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni.
Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Finish & Serve:
Remove bay leaf.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Serve in deep bowls with cheese melting over the top.
Side Pairings:
- Buttered bread or rolls
- Simple green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Garlic toast
Leftover Uses:
- Goulash casserole bake
- Stuffed peppers
- Next-day lunch bowls
Beverage Pairing:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Light red wine
Additional Tips
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- For extra richness, stir in a little butter at the end.
- Let it rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Variations
- Cheesy Goulash: Stir in cheddar or mozzarella.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add bell peppers or corn.
- Ground Turkey Goulash: Swap beef for turkey.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
Freeze: Up to 2 months
Reheat: Stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth
Special Equipment
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as Hungarian goulash?
No, this is American old-fashioned goulash, made with pasta and tomatoes.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes, shells, rotini, or penne work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, it tastes even better the next day.
Why is my goulash too thick?
Add more broth or water to loosen it.
Conclusion
Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort dish that’s easy, hearty, and deeply satisfying. With simple ingredients, one-pot cooking, and nostalgic flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that belongs in every home kitchen. Perfect for busy nights, family dinners, and leftovers you’ll actually look forward to.
