Old Fashioned Goulash

 

Classic American Goulash (Hearty, Comfort Food Favorite)

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food made with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and one pot — just like grandma used to make. It’s filling, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

 Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

 Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon

 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

1. Add diced onion to the beef.
2. Cook 4–5 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in:
   • Tomato sauce
   • Diced tomatoes
   • Beef broth
   • Worcestershire sauce
   • Soy sauce
   • Paprika
   • Italian seasoning
   • Salt & pepper
2. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

1. Stir in uncooked macaroni.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Add more broth if needed.

Step 5: Finish

1. Taste and adjust seasoning.
2. Stir in cheese if using until melted.

 How to Serve

Serve hot with:

• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Steamed veggies

 Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Goulash

• Use a Dutch oven for even heat
• Stir pasta often to prevent sticking
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving (thickens sauce)
• Even better the next day

 Variations

• Cheesy Goulash: Add mozzarella or Colby Jack
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes
• Veggie Loaded: Add bell peppers or corn
• Turkey Goulash: Use ground turkey

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 3 months
• Reheat with splash of broth or water

 Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Goulash is cozy, hearty, and full of nostalgic flavor. A classic one-pot meal that never goes out of style.