There's something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash on a chilly evening. The aroma of simmering ground beef, tomatoes, and spices fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This hearty dish is a nostalgic favorite, bringing back memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings.

I first discovered this recipe through my grandmother, who made it often as a budget-friendly way to feed our large family. With simple pantry staples and minimal prep time, it quickly became a go-to meal in our home. Now, I make it for my own family, and it never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with this classic dish! Old Fashioned Goulash is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

First, it's a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean up. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while making your kitchen cleanup a breeze.

It's also budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, you can whip up a hearty meal that won’t break the bank.

This recipe is great for leftovers. In fact, the flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Perfect for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week!

Finally, it's family-approved. Kids and adults alike love this cozy, flavorful dish, making it a perfect weeknight staple.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Ground Beef is the heart of this dish. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.

Elbow Macaroni provides the perfect bite-sized pasta to soak up all the delicious flavors. If you’re out of elbow macaroni, rotini or shells work just as well.

Canned Tomatoes (both diced and tomato sauce) give the goulash its rich, tangy base. For added depth, fire-roasted tomatoes are a fantastic substitution.

Garlic and Onion are essential for building flavor. Fresh minced garlic and chopped onion sautéed with the beef add a fragrant, savory touch to the dish.

Beef Broth helps to thin out the sauce while enhancing the overall richness. If you don’t have beef broth on hand, water with a bouillon cube works as a quick substitute.

A large Dutch oven or deep skillet is ideal for cooking everything in one pot and ensuring even heat distribution.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making Old Fashioned Goulash is as simple as it is satisfying. Let’s walk through the steps.

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.

Next, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent, infusing the beef with a delicious aromatic base.

Now, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky warmth.

Once the sauce is simmering, pour in the elbow macaroni and stir well to coat the pasta. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the rich flavors of the sauce.

Finally, give the goulash a good stir and taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve it hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh parsley for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Options

This Old Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

For refrigeration, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

For freezing, portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.

To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap out regular diced tomatoes for Rotel tomatoes with green chilies.

If you’re looking for a low-carb version, swap the elbow macaroni for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Just add them toward the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

You can also switch up the protein. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well as a substitute for ground beef.

For a cheesier twist, stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella just before serving. This creates a creamy, indulgent texture that’s hard to resist.

Feeling adventurous? Add some vegetables! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can be added for extra nutrition and color.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients and make this dish your own. No matter how you prepare it, Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that never disappoints!