If you’re looking for a comforting, nostalgic dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you need to try this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe. This hearty, satisfying meal brings together tender macaroni, rich ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce seasoned to perfection, making it a timeless favorite in many homes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a simple yet flavorful dinner, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe delivers that classic taste that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays an important role: the macaroni provides a chewy, comforting base; the ground beef brings hearty richness; and the tomatoes add vibrant color and tangy brightness to the sauce.
- 1/2 lb macaroni: Use elbow macaroni or your favorite small pasta for perfect bite-sized pieces that hold the sauce well.
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: Opt for a lean ground beef to keep the dish balanced and not too greasy.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when browned with the beef.
- Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste: These spices bring warmth, a hint of heat, and a rich savory punch to the sauce.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained: The stewed tomatoes provide the saucy base, packed with sweetness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a subtle sweetness and thickness to the tomato sauce.
- Tomato juice as needed: Used to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency without watering down the flavor.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by cooking the macaroni until it reaches al dente texture according to the package directions. This is important because your pasta will continue to cook slightly later when combined with the sauce, and you want it to maintain that perfect firmness. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion over medium heat. This step is where the flavors begin to develop—the onions soften and caramelize slightly as the beef cooks through, creating a rich, hearty foundation for your goulash.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomatoes
Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then season the meat and onions with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and your preferred amount of hot sauce. Stir in the canned whole stewed tomatoes along with their juices, mashing the tomatoes gently to break them down. Add the ketchup, blending everything into a luscious sauce.
Step 4: Combine Macaroni with Meat Sauce
Mix the cooked macaroni into the beef and tomato sauce, stirring well to ensure every piece is coated in that rich, tangy goodness. This step brings the dish together, uniting the components into a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Consistency
Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce for extra kick. If the sauce feels too thick, pour in a little tomato juice until it reaches your desired consistency—creamy but still saucy enough to mingle with the pasta beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve Hot
Let the goulash simmer gently for a few more minutes to allow all the flavors to marry and the pasta to soak up the sauce. Serve it piping hot as a hearty, satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe, consider topping it with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a handful of fresh chopped parsley. These garnishes add a burst of color and richness that complements the tangy tomato sauce and tender beef perfectly.
Side Dishes
This goulash shines as a standalone dish but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread. The fresh, crunchy salad cuts through the richness while the bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a golden layer of melted cheese broiled until bubbly. You can also transform it into a layered casserole by mixing the goulash with ricotta and baking until heated through for a cozy family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting dish longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and enjoy on a busy night.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or tomato juice if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this goulash?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap in penne, rotini, or any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the pasta stays al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the hearty texture and protein without the meat. Just follow the same steps for cooking and seasoning.
How spicy is the Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
The spice level is entirely up to you! The base recipe includes chili powder and hot sauce to taste, so you can go mild or add extra heat depending on your preference.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a crowd?
Definitely. Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe reheats well and tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for gatherings.
What toppings or mix-ins can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to get creative! Some great add-ins include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can also swirl in sour cream for a creamy twist.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like coming home. It’s simple, satisfying, and filled with flavors that bring a smile with every bite. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone seeking a classic comfort meal that never disappoints. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the cozy goodness!
Print
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal featuring tender macaroni simmered with savory ground beef, stewed tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a quick family dinner, it delivers hearty flavors with a simple, straightforward cooking process.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1/2 lb macaroni
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
Seasoning and Sauces
- Garlic salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Chili powder to taste
- Hot sauce to taste
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Tomato juice as needed
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil the macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef and onion: In an extra-large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season and add tomatoes: Drain any excess grease, then season the beef mixture with garlic salt, black pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste. Add the undrained stewed tomatoes to the skillet and mash them slightly to distribute.
- Incorporate ketchup and macaroni: Stir in the 2 tablespoons of ketchup into the meat and tomato mixture. Add the cooked macaroni and mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Adjust seasoning and add tomato juice: Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add tomato juice gradually if you prefer a thinner consistency, stirring well.
- Simmer and serve: Allow the goulash to simmer gently over low heat for 5-10 minutes to blend flavors. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a milder taste, reduce or omit the hot sauce and chili powder.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni or small shells if preferred.
- Adding a little shredded cheese on top before serving adds extra richness.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop.
