Old Fashioned Goulash

Discover the Comfort of Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a beloved classic that brings warmth and hearty satisfaction to any meal. This recipe blends the rich flavors of tender ground beef with the tangy, robust aroma of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, complemented by the softness of elbow macaroni. Every bite offers a wonderful combination of savory depth, a hint of smoky paprika, and the subtle herbs from Italian seasoning. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this old-fashioned goulash will quickly become a favorite, delivering both comfort and ease right from your stovetop.

Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful Old Fashioned Goulash recipe that promises a perfect balance of textures—from the tender pasta to the slightly melted cheddar topping, enhancing every mouthful. Best of all, it’s made without any pork or alcohol, keeping it accessible and suitable for many dietary preferences.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time & Servings

Preparation for this Old Fashioned Goulash takes about 10 minutes, with the cooking process requiring roughly 25 minutes. The total time to enjoy this hearty dish is approximately 35 minutes. This recipe yields 4 generous servings, perfect for feeding families or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Stir frequently to break up the meat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the aromas to develop.
3. Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (including their juice), and water or beef broth. Stir in the soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well for an even flavor distribution.
4. Bring to a boil & add pasta: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
5. Simmer until tender: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly until tender.
6. Add cheese and serve: If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Cover the pot again and let the cheese melt for a few minutes before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Goulash

• Drain beef fat thoroughly: Removing excess fat ensures the goulash stays flavorful but not greasy.
• Use beef broth instead of water: For added depth and richness, beef broth enhances the overall flavor.
• Stir occasionally while simmering: Keeps the macaroni from sticking to the bottom and guarantees even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste toward the end and add more salt or pepper if needed for perfect balance.
• Let it rest: After cooking, letting goulash sit covered for 5 minutes helps flavors meld beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Old Fashioned Goulash is versatile and easy to customize to your preferences or dietary needs.

• Meat alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground meat substitutes or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Healthier pasta choice: Replace elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein.
• Dairy-free cheese: Opt for vegan shredded cheese or skip cheese altogether for lactose-free eating.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne if you prefer some heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. If the goulash thickens too much after refrigeration, stir in a splash of water or broth to restore the ideal consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! It reheats well and the flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

For a soy-free option, coconut aminos or a splash of Worcestershire sauce (check for alcohol-free varieties) can be substituted without losing flavor.

Is it possible to freeze this goulash?

Yes, this dish freezes well in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots can be sautéed with the onions for extra nutrition and color.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic due to its melting quality and flavor, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work nicely if you prefer milder cheese.

Nutrition Estimate per Serving

Each serving of this Old Fashioned Goulash contains approximately 450 calories, with around 30 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. The dish provides a balanced source of macronutrients, making it a satisfying and nourishing option for a hearty meal.

Print Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash

A hearty, comforting goulash made with tender ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and soft elbow macaroni. Seasoned with smoky paprika, Italian herbs, and rich broth, this stovetop staple delivers savory depth and cozy simplicity for family dinners. Topped with optional cheddar for extra indulgence.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time25 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450kcal

Author: AI Generator

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

• Brown the beef in a large pot or skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, draining excess fat.
• Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 1 minute.
• Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), water or broth, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then add uncooked elbow macaroni and stir gently to combine.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• For optional cheese topping: remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.

Notes

Use beef broth instead of water for deeper flavor. Simmer longer for thicker sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.