Introduction
Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, one-pot comfort meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. This classic American-style goulash is simple, budget-friendly, and packed with satisfying flavors that have made it a family favorite for generations. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, it’s a filling meal that brings everyone to the table.
Origin
American Goulash is a comforting adaptation of the traditional Hungarian dish. While Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked stew flavored with paprika, the American version combines ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and herbs in a convenient one-pot meal that became popular throughout the United States during the 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Old Fashioned Goulash has long been a staple in American home kitchens thanks to its affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to feed a crowd. It’s commonly served for family dinners, potlucks, church gatherings, and meal prep because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients Quantity
Yield: 8 servings
For the Goulash
- 2 pounds (900 g) lean ground chuck beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 (15 oz / 425 g) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5 oz / 410 g) cans petite diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Additions
Customize your goulash with
- Sliced mushrooms
- Diced bell peppers
- Sweet corn
- Spinach
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Smoked paprika
- Mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil
Tips for Success
Brown the beef thoroughly and drain any excess fat before adding the remaining ingredients.
Cook the pasta until just tender to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Allow the goulash to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken.
Instructions
Step 1 Cook the Beef
Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Drain any excess fat.
Step 2 Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3 Build the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4 Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the pot.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5 Add the Cheese
If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6 Serve
Ladle into serving bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve warm.
Description
Old Fashioned Goulash is rich, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors. The savory beef, tender macaroni, and robust tomato sauce come together in one satisfying dish that’s cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Nutritional Information
Estimated Per Serving
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that transforms everyday pantry ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, it’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving a crowd.
Recommendation
Serve with garlic bread, buttered dinner rolls, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Pair with iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or freshly brewed iced coffee for a complete meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Preparing homemade goulash allows you to enjoy wholesome ingredients while controlling the seasoning and portion sizes. Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and vitamin B12, while tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants such as lycopene. Enjoy this comforting one-pot meal as part of a balanced lifestyle alongside fresh vegetables or a crisp salad.