Classic Comfort: Try This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Photo byAngie Bright

Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic dish that brings together rich, hearty flavors and a comforting nostalgia. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a flavorful and filling meal that will please everyone around the table.

A Taste of Home-Cooked Comfort

Goulash has been a staple in kitchens for generations. This version, often called American Goulash, takes a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and turns them into something spectacular. It combines ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and just the right amount of seasoning to create a savory, one-pot meal. The mix of tender macaroni with flavorful beef and tomato sauce is a match made in comfort food heaven.

What's great about Old Fashioned Goulash is its adaptability. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or looking to spice things up with some heat, this dish can handle it all. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner ready in a flash.

Recipe: Old Fashioned Goulash

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Add in the chopped onion, green pepper, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to blend together.
3. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to make sure the pasta is well coated and submerged in the sauce. Cover and let it cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
4. Finish the Goulash: If you’d like to make it extra comforting, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until it melts into the sauce. This step is optional, but it adds a wonderful creamy texture to the dish.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the goulash hot. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Make Ahead Tips: You can make this goulash ahead of time and reheat it when needed. It might thicken up in the fridge, so feel free to add a splash of water or broth when warming it back up to get that saucy consistency back.

Variations: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier twist. You can also mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to make it even heartier.

The Final Comfort Dish

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal – it’s a trip down memory lane. The rich, savory sauce, tender pasta, and perfectly seasoned beef all come together in a way that’s timeless and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or making a batch for leftovers, this recipe will never let you down. It’s a dish that reminds you of the comfort and warmth of home, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Here are several sources you can explore for variations and details on making Old Fashioned Goulash:

1. Allrecipes' Classic Goulash Recipe: This version features simple ingredients like ground beef, macaroni, and tomatoes, combined with classic seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and Italian herbs. It's a hearty, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknights​(Allrecipes)​(Allrecipes).
2. Goulash Supreme Recipe: This recipe from Allrecipes uses ground beef, stewed tomatoes, and macaroni with a dash of chili powder for extra flavor. It’s a quick and comforting dish that can be ready in just 30 minutes​(Allrecipes).
3. Hamburger Goulash: This variation includes hearty additions like potatoes, green beans, and corn, which gives it more of a stew-like feel. It’s a great way to make a more filling meal with simple ingredients​(Allrecipes).

These variations will give you flexibility in making your goulash, depending on what ingredients you have on hand or your family's preferences.