Old-fashioned goulash is a comforting, hearty dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This classic American-style goulash is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and savory beef creates a nostalgic dish that has been loved for generations.
Ingredients:
For the Goulash:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (for extra flavor and texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend. If adding bell peppers or red pepper flakes, mix them in at this stage.
3. Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the mixture becomes too thick, add extra broth or water as needed.
4. Add Cheese and Serve
If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. This adds a creamy richness to the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Goulash:
- For a richer flavor, use half ground beef and half Italian sausage.
- Make it heartier by adding mushrooms, corn, or kidney beans.
- Enhance the sauce with a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar.
- Prevent overcooking pasta by slightly undercooking it before letting it sit in the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Variations:
- Hungarian-Style Goulash: Use chunks of beef instead of ground beef and season with sweet Hungarian paprika.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Cheesy Baked Goulash: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well in this recipe.
2. Can I freeze goulash?
Yes, let the goulash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except pasta and cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and low-sodium tomato products. Add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach.
Storage and Reheating:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Old-fashioned goulash is a delicious and easy one-pot meal that brings back nostalgic flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s a budget-friendly dish that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this goulash recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting goodness of this timeless classic!
