Easy Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe – A Comfort Food Classic

There is something about an old-fashioned goulash that brings back warm, nostalgic memories. This dish is one of those classic, no-fuss meals that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you grew up eating it at family gatherings or are just discovering it for the first time, goulash is a recipe that stands the test of time.

Goulash is known for its hearty combination of ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and cheese, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful sauce. It is a one-pot meal that is both filling and easy to make. Unlike the traditional Hungarian goulash, which features chunks of beef and a paprika-rich broth, this American-style goulash is more like a beef and pasta casserole. It has a thick tomato-based sauce, seasoned ground beef, and elbow macaroni, all brought together with a touch of melted cheese.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It is also incredibly versatile—you can adjust the seasoning, add vegetables, or even swap out the meat for a healthier alternative. If you are looking for a dish that is quick to prepare but still delivers big on flavor, this old-fashioned goulash is a fantastic choice.

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. It is budget-friendly, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes even better the next day. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a salad and garlic bread, it is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old-fashioned goulash is the kind of meal that everyone enjoys. It is a dish that is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Here are a few reasons why you will love this recipe:

It Is Quick and Easy to Make

With just a handful of pantry staples and less than an hour of cooking time, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready for dinner. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it an excellent recipe for beginners.

It Is a One-Pot Meal

There is nothing better than a meal that comes together in a single pot. Not only does this cut down on clean-up time, but it also allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully as they cook.

It Is Perfect for Meal Prep

Old-Fashioned Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

It Is a Budget-Friendly Dish

With affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, this recipe is an economical choice for families. It is a great way to stretch a pound of beef into a hearty meal that serves multiple people.

It Is Customizable

You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. If you want to add extra vegetables, throw in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce.

Health Benefits of This Dish

Although goulash is considered comfort food, it still has some nutritional benefits. With a few modifications, you can make this meal even healthier while keeping all the flavor intact.

Good Source of Protein

Ground beef is rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.

Rich in Lycopene

Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Canned tomatoes, used in this recipe, retain a high concentration of lycopene, making them a healthy addition to the dish.

Provides Essential Nutrients

This dish contains iron, B vitamins, and fiber, which contribute to energy production and overall health. If you add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, you can increase the vitamin and mineral content even further.

Can Be Made Healthier

If you want to lighten up the dish, you can:

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber and protein.
• Reduce the cheese to lower the fat content.
• Use lean ground beef or swap it for turkey for a lower-fat alternative.
• Add more vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrients.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 6-8 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cans (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Additions

• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the elbow macaroni and cook 3 minutes less than package directions.
• Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat.
• Stir frequently and cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned.
• Drain excess grease.

Add Garlic and Seasonings

• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
• Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

Simmer the Sauce

• Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to allow the flavors to blend together.

Combine Pasta and Cheese

• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
• Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, saving the rest for topping.

Bake the Goulash

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, if needed.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

• Let the goulash sit for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Old-fashioned goulash is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the experience. Whether you want something light and fresh to balance the richness or a hearty addition to make it even more filling, here are some of the best ways to serve this classic dish.

Serve It as a Standalone Dish

Goulash is already packed with protein, carbs, and flavor, making it a well-rounded meal. Simply ladle a generous portion into a bowl, sprinkle with extra cheese if desired, and enjoy it warm. If you want to add a touch of freshness, top it with a handful of chopped parsley or fresh basil.

Pair It with a Side Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect way to contrast the heartiness of this Old-Fashioned Goulash. Consider serving it with:

• Classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and parmesan cheese
• Simple garden salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette
• Spinach and arugula salad with a light lemon dressing

Add Some Crunch with Bread

A warm, crusty piece of bread is great for soaking up all the delicious sauce in this dish. Try pairing goulash with:

• Garlic bread brushed with butter and herbs
• Dinner rolls for a soft and fluffy side
• Rustic sourdough bread for extra crunch

Serve It with Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

For added nutrition, serve goulash with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables. Some great options include:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze
• Steamed green beans tossed in butter and garlic
• Grilled zucchini and bell peppers

Pair It with a Light Soup

If you’re looking for a two-course meal, serving a light soup as a starter can make the meal feel more special. Try a simple tomato soup, vegetable broth, or a light chicken soup to complement the goulash.

Goulash is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

Pairing Suggestions

Finding the right beverage or side dish to complement goulash enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some of the best pairings that work beautifully with this dish.

Best Drinks to Serve with Goulash

• Iced tea with lemon – A refreshing option that cuts through the richness
• Sparkling water with lime – A crisp and clean contrast
• Apple cider (hot or cold) – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors
• A light herbal tea – Chamomile, mint, or lemon ginger work well
• Homemade lemonade – Tart, citrusy flavors complement the tomato-based sauce

Perfect Side Dishes for a Full Meal

If you want to turn this Old-Fashioned Goulash into a larger family-style meal, consider serving it with:

• Mashed potatoes – A creamy, buttery option to soak up the sauce
• Steamed rice – A neutral base that pairs well with the savory flavors
• Cornbread – Adds a slightly sweet contrast to the dish

Cheese Pairings

If you love extra cheesy goulash, consider topping it with:

• Shredded mozzarella for extra meltiness
• Parmesan cheese for a slightly nutty flavor
• Crumbled feta cheese for a tangy contrast

Goulash is a warm and comforting dish that works well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Experiment with different pairings to find your perfect combination.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This dish is perfect for leftovers because the flavors continue to develop over time. Whether you want to store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for future meals, here’s how to keep it fresh.

Store Leftovers

• Allow the goulash to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• If you need to store it longer, freezing is the best option.

Freeze Goulash

• Divide the goulash into individual portions for easy reheating.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat Goulash

• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven: Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for.

Overcooking the Pasta

Cooking the pasta too long before adding it to the sauce can make it mushy. Instead, cook it 3 minutes less than the package instructions. It will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.

Using Too Much Liquid

Adding too much broth or sauce can result in a soupy texture rather than a thick and hearty dish. If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.

Pro Tips for the Best Goulash

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the dish. For the creamiest results, grate your own cheese before adding it to the goulash.

Let the Flavors Marinate

Old-Fashioned Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If possible, let it sit for a few hours before serving for a richer taste.

Add a Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a little heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use rotini, penne, or shells for a fun variation.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except the pasta and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Old-fashioned goulash is a dish that never goes out of style. It is easy to make, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you are making it for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

Now it is your turn to try this classic recipe. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that is sure to become a staple in your home. If you love this dish, share it with friends and family, and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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