Old Fashioned Goulash

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

One-pot ground beef goulash with macaroni, tomatoes and cheese. Takes 40 minutes total, serves 6, and makes great leftovers. Classic comfort food that's budget-friendly.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:59:55 GMT
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Old Fashioned Goulash transforms humble ingredients into a soul-warming masterpiece where tender ground beef mingles with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce. This cherished American classic brings comfort and satisfaction to your table in just one pot, making it an ideal choice for creating lasting family memories.

In my kitchen, this goulash has become our Thursday night tradition. The way the house fills with the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen, where I first learned to appreciate the beauty of simple, hearty cooking.

Kitchen Essentials Collection

  • Ground beef: Select 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and texture
  • Elbow macaroni: These curved tubes capture the perfect amount of sauce
  • Diced tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they form the heart of our rich sauce
  • Beef broth: Creates depth and richness throughout the dish
  • Fresh garlic and onions: Build an aromatic foundation that elevates all other flavors
  • Italian seasoning blend: Brings Mediterranean warmth to every spoonful

Creating Your Goulash

Meat Preparation:
Brown ground beef in a Dutch oven until perfectly crumbly and caramelized, about 7-8 minutes.
Aromatic Foundation:
Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic with the beef until they become translucent and fragrant.
Sauce Development:
Pour in tomatoes, broth, and seasonings, allowing them to meld into a rich, flavorful base.
Pasta Integration:
Add macaroni directly to the simmering sauce, letting it absorb the flavors as it cooks to tender perfection.
Final Harmony:
Adjust seasonings and let the mixture rest briefly to thicken into the perfect consistency.
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My children particularly love helping me stir the pot as the pasta cooks, watching it transform from firm to perfectly tender. There's something magical about seeing their eyes light up as they learn the joy of creating a meal from scratch.

Serving Excellence

Transform this hearty dish into a complete feast by pairing it with buttery garlic bread and a crisp garden salad. For casual gatherings, serve in deep bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan.

Recipe Adaptations

Switch up the flavor profile by using Italian sausage instead of beef, or create a Mediterranean version with ground lamb and oregano. For a lighter option, substitute turkey and whole grain pasta.

Perfect Preservation

Store cooled goulash in an airtight container for up to four days, adding a splash of broth when reheating to maintain its silky texture. For best results, warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

After years of making this goulash, I've learned that patience is key – allowing each layer of flavor to develop fully creates a dish that's so much more than the sum of its parts. This recipe isn't just about feeding people; it's about creating moments of joy around the dinner table.

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Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
→ What sides go well with goulash?
Crusty bread, green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread all pair nicely with this hearty dish.
→ Can I freeze leftover goulash?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
→ What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Any short pasta works well - try shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
→ How do I make this goulash less soupy?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or use less broth. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits.

Family Favorite Beef Goulash Dinner

A simple, hearty goulash made with ground beef, macaroni and tomatoes. Perfect comfort food for any night of the week.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Total Time Required
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Ideal for Beginners

Cuisine Style: American

Recipe Output: 6 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Gather

→ Main Ingredients

Contains 01 items 1 pound lean ground beef
Contains 02 items 1 medium onion, finely diced
Contains 03 items 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced

→ Pasta & Dairy

Contains 04 items 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Contains 05 items 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese

→ Sauce & Seasonings

Contains 06 items 1 can (15 oz) rich tomato sauce
Contains 07 items 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with their juices
Contains 08 items 1½ cups flavorful beef broth
Contains 09 items 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Contains 10 items 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
Contains 11 items 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
Contains 12 items ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Contains 13 items ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

Contains 14 items Fresh parsley leaves, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Get your large pot nice and hot over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon while it browns, and once it's cooked through, drain off most of the fat, leaving just a tablespoon for flavor.

Step 02

Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic right into the pot with that browned beef. Let them cook together until the onion softens and becomes translucent and your kitchen starts smelling amazing - about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 03

Now comes the good part - pour in your tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (juice and all), beef broth, and that splash of Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it all come to a gentle bubble.

Step 04

Add your uncooked macaroni right into the sauce. Give it a good stir, pop the lid on, and let it simmer away over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened up nicely - about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 05

If you're going for extra creaminess (and who isn't?), stir in half of your shredded cheddar. Sprinkle the rest over top, cover, and let it melt into gooey perfection for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 06

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve while it's hot. A chunk of crusty bread or fresh side salad makes the perfect companion.

Important Tips

  1. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and reheats beautifully. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days - if they last that long!
  2. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas. You can also switch up the cheese - try mozzarella or Parmesan for a different twist.

Essential Tools

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy (cheese)
  • Contains gluten (pasta)

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 425.5
  • Fat Amount: 18.7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38.2 g
  • Protein Amount: 25.4 g