There’s something special about an Old-fashioned goulash recipe that makes it the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, savory sauce, tender pasta, and perfectly seasoned beef, this dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you grew up eating it at family gatherings or you’re trying it for the first time, goulash is the kind of meal that brings people together.

This American-style goulash is different from the Hungarian version, which traditionally includes paprika and slow-simmered chunks of beef. Instead, this recipe is a quick, one-pot dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese. It’s easy, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

I remember the first time I had goulash as a kid. My grandmother would make a big pot on chilly evenings, and the aroma would fill the entire house. We’d gather around the table, piling our bowls high and topping them with extra cheese. The best part? Leftovers tasted even better the next day. Now, I love making this dish for my own family, and it always brings back those cozy memories.

If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing meal, this goulash recipe is for you. It’s packed with hearty ingredients, and you likely already have everything you need in your pantry. So, grab a big pot, and let’s make this comforting classic!

Why You’ll Love This Old-fashioned goulash recipe

There are countless reasons to love this old-fashioned goulash, but here are some of the best:

1. It’s a One-Pot Wonder

Nobody loves washing dishes, and this recipe keeps cleanup to a minimum. Everything cooks in a single pot, making it a stress-free meal with less mess.

2. Budget-Friendly & Pantry Staples

Goulash is made with simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and cheese. You probably have most of them on hand already, making this a great go-to meal when you’re low on groceries.

3. Comforting & Hearty

There’s nothing like a big bowl of warm, cheesy goulash to make you feel cozy. It’s filling, satisfying, and full of classic flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.

4. Great for Meal Prep & Leftovers

This dish tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld together beautifully, making leftovers extra delicious. It also reheats well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

5. Perfect for Families

Kids and adults alike love this recipe. It’s mild, cheesy, and has just the right amount of seasoning. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add extra cheese, swap the pasta, or spice it up to suit your taste.

Health Benefits of Goulash

While goulash is known as a comfort food, it also has some great nutritional benefits. By using lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and fresh ingredients, you can make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.

1. High in Protein

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. If you want to make this dish even leaner, you can use ground turkey or chicken.

2. Rich in Vitamins & Minerals

Tomatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and support heart health. If you use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, you’ll get even more nutrients.

3. Whole Grains for Fiber

If you opt for whole wheat macaroni, you’ll get extra fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

4. Healthy Fats from Cheese

While cheese adds richness to the dish, it also provides calcium and healthy fats. If you want to lighten it up, you can use reduced-fat cheese or add nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

5. Balanced Meal

This goulash recipe includes protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a well-rounded meal. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 12g

This meal is hearty, satisfying, and relatively balanced in macronutrients. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can reduce the amount of pasta or substitute it with zucchini noodles.

Ingredients List of this Old-fashioned goulash recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this old-fashioned goulash:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth of flavor)
• 1 cup bell peppers or mushrooms (to add more veggies)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions to make this Old-fashioned goulash recipe

1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni for about 3 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the sauce later, slightly undercooking it helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
3. Drain and set aside.

 2: Cook the Beef & Onions

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and chopped onions.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft (about 6-7 minutes).
4. Drain any excess grease.

 3: Add Garlic & Seasoning

1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop the flavors.

 4: Add Pasta & Cheese

1. Stir the cooked macaroni into the sauce, making sure it’s fully coated.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.

5: Bake (Optional for Extra Flavor!)

1. If you want a slightly crispy, cheesy topping, transfer the goulash to an oven-safe baking dish.
2. Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

How to Serve this Old-fashioned goulash recipe

• Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for extra freshness.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Pairing Suggestions of this Old-fashioned goulash recipe

Goulash pairs well with:

• Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli
• Roasted Brussels sprouts for a crunchy contrast
• Cornbread or dinner rolls for a Southern-style twist

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Goulash

Goulash is a versatile dish that can be adapted in so many ways to match your preferences. If you love a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a smoky depth of flavor, a teaspoon of smoked paprika can make a big difference. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter version. If you enjoy extra veggies, stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach at the end for added nutrients. Want a cheesy twist? Mix in a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for extra creaminess. The best thing about goulash is that it’s forgiving—no matter how you change it up, it will always be a hearty and satisfying meal.

How to Make This Goulash in a Slow Cooker

If you love hands-off cooking, making this goulash in a slow cooker is a fantastic option. Start by browning the ground beef and onions in a pan, then transfer them to your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir everything together and cook on low for 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to develop. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and let it cook until tender. Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese, stir to combine, and serve. This method is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without having to stand by the stove.

Serving Goulash for Special Occasions

While goulash is a simple dish, you can easily elevate it for special occasions. Serve it in individual ramekins topped with a golden, cheesy crust for a more elegant presentation. Pair it with homemade garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re hosting a casual dinner party, set up a goulash bar with toppings like fresh herbs, shredded cheese, sour cream, and crunchy fried onions, so guests can customize their bowls. For a family-style feast, serve it alongside warm cornbread and buttered green beans for the ultimate comfort meal. No matter the occasion, goulash can be made to feel extra special with just a few thoughtful additions.

Transforming Leftover Goulash into New Dishes

Leftover goulash can be turned into entirely new meals with just a few simple tweaks. Try using it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers—just spoon the goulash into halved peppers, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake until tender. Another great idea is to layer it with ricotta cheese and extra mozzarella for a quick and easy goulash lasagna. You can also stir in some extra broth and turn it into a hearty soup, perfect for dipping crusty bread. For a fun twist, scoop the goulash into tortillas, top with cheese, and bake for a Tex-Mex-inspired goulash enchilada dish. The possibilities are endless, and repurposing leftovers means you get even more delicious meals with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

This old-fashioned goulash is a tried-and-true recipe that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for family meals. Whether you serve it fresh or as leftovers, it’s a comforting dish that never disappoints. Try it out, and let me know how it turns out!

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