Old-Fashioned Goulash

Introduction

When it comes to cozy, budget-friendly meals that can feed a crowd, Old-Fashioned Goulash tops the list. This dish has roots in American kitchens where home cooks needed to stretch ingredients to feed their families. A mix of ground beef, onions, garlic, pasta, and a savory tomato sauce, it’s a meal that blends comfort and convenience seamlessly. Unlike Hungarian goulash, which leans toward paprika-rich stews, this American version is more of a one-pot pasta dish with bold tomato flavors. It’s versatile, affordable, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.

My recipe story

I first learned about Old-Fashioned Goulash from my grandmother, who made it as a staple meal during busy farming seasons. She needed something filling, easy to prepare, and able to keep well for leftovers. Over the years, I adapted her recipe slightly—adding extra garlic for flavor, choosing hearty elbow macaroni, and incorporating Worcestershire sauce for depth. Every time I make this goulash, it feels like a comforting hug from the past, reminding me of large family dinners around a noisy table. It’s one of those dishes that never loses its charm and always brings back warm memories.

Ingredient breakdown

This goulash recipe uses simple pantry staples that come together to create a rich and hearty dish. The foundation is ground beef—lean yet flavorful, making the sauce hearty and protein-packed. Onions and garlic provide aromatic depth, while tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and a touch of tomato paste build a savory, slightly tangy base that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Elbow macaroni is the pasta of choice, holding up well in the sauce while providing that classic texture. A sprinkle of seasonings like Italian herbs, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce enhances flavor, while shredded cheddar cheese at the end gives it a creamy, indulgent finish. The best part? Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe both accessible and practical.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta
• Serving bowls or casserole dish (optional for family-style)

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Brown the beef. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Add aromatics. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Build the sauce. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper). Mix well, then reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 15–20 minutes. This simmering step deepens the flavor and helps meld the ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the pasta. While the sauce simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, usually 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce pot, stirring until every piece of pasta is well coated. Let the mixture simmer together for another 5 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water.

Step 6: Finish and serve. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste for seasoning adjustments, then serve hot in bowls with extra cheese or fresh parsley on top. Enjoy immediately, or cool slightly before storing leftovers.

Variations & substitutions

Want to make this goulash your own? Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with lentils or crumbled tofu. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients. You can also use different pasta shapes—rotini or penne both work well. If you love spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Old-Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it a fantastic meal-prep option. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. If making ahead, cook pasta just shy of al dente to prevent it from getting overly soft when reheated.

Serving ideas & pairings

Serve this goulash with a side of crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the rich tomato sauce. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the pasta. For a family gathering, pair it with roasted vegetables or even corn on the cob for a full comfort meal. A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a chilled glass of iced tea also pairs wonderfully with the flavors. If you want to go classic, finish the meal with apple pie or brownies for dessert.

FAQ

Can I make goulash without cheese? Absolutely. Cheese adds creaminess, but you can skip it or replace it with dairy-free alternatives.

What’s the difference between American goulash and Hungarian goulash? Hungarian goulash is a stew with paprika and potatoes, while American goulash is a pasta-based dish with a tomato sauce.

Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works just as well. Adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I prevent mushy pasta? Cook pasta just until al dente and avoid over-simmering after combining with the sauce.

Is goulash kid-friendly? Definitely! The mild tomato flavor and pasta make it a hit with kids. For picky eaters, you can keep seasonings simple.

Final thoughts

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort dish that proves simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With its hearty blend of beef, pasta, and savory tomato sauce, it’s the perfect family dinner that stretches easily, feeds generously, and leaves everyone satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a crowd, this recipe delivers flavor, nostalgia, and practicality in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has remained a staple in American kitchens for decades.

Old-Fashioned Goulash

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Hearty and comforting American goulash with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

•  2 pounds ground beef
  
• 1 large onion, chopped
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  
• 1 teaspoon paprika
  
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  
• Salt and black pepper to taste
  
• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the ground beef until no longer pink; drain excess fat.

2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, then stir in minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes.
4. Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.

5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the pot and simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, then serve hot.
   

Notes

For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American