Old Fashioned Goulash

Name: Old Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth or water; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients in a deliciously satisfying way. With tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce, this one-pot meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or a crowd-pleasing weeknight meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s straightforward, filling, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce makes for a dish that appeals to all ages. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for adjustments depending on what you have in your pantry. It’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, and it’s the kind of dish that gets better with leftovers. Whether you’re serving it to your family or bringing it to a potluck, this goulash is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
2 cups beef broth or water
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), and garlic to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Add the basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir it in.
Cover the pot and simmer the goulash for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The pasta should be tender and the sauce thickened.
Once the pasta is cooked, check for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Goulash: Skip the ground beef and use plant-based protein or lentils for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella right before serving for a cheesy, creamy twist.
Beef Goulash: Combine ground beef for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Old Fashioned Goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra water or beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for goulash?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time if needed based on the pasta you choose.

How can I make goulash spicier?

To add some heat, try including red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or even a bit of hot sauce. Adjust to your spice preference.

Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will even deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Can I add more vegetables to the goulash?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this goulash recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety. Be sure to check your canned tomato products to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this dish. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft in the goulash?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers and check it for doneness about 15 minutes into cooking. If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can I add cheese to the goulash while cooking?

Yes, you can stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella towards the end of cooking for a cheesy goulash. However, this can change the texture of the dish, so add it to your taste.

Is goulash the same as American chop suey?

Yes, the terms “goulash” and “American chop suey” are often used interchangeably in the U.S. for this type of dish, though there are slight variations in ingredients based on region.

How long will goulash keep in the refrigerator?

Leftover goulash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. After that, the quality may start to decline.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its savory sauce, tender pasta, and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion when you want something easy, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a meal that can feed your family for a few days, this recipe has you covered. Whip it up in no time and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love.