Old Fashioned Goulash

Name: Old Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup elbow macaroni; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and hearty dish, Old Fashioned Goulash is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This classic recipe combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a filling meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:14:54.705Z

Old Fashioned Goulash is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and comforting meals. This recipe has been passed down through generations, embodying the essence of home-cooked goodness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
A one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup

      

The Heart of Comfort Food

Old Fashioned Goulash is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table. This dish is not only filling but also nostalgic, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. With its rich tomato sauce and hearty ingredients, it's a meal that can easily become a weekly staple.

What makes goulash truly special is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal recipe for using up leftover vegetables or pantry staples. Whether you prefer it spicy with added chili or mild and savory, this dish can be tailored to suit every palate.

A One-Pot Meal

One of the standout features of Old Fashioned Goulash is its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. This is a significant advantage for busy families and individuals who want to enjoy a home-cooked dinner without the hassle of multiple dishes.

Moreover, the one-pot cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As the ground beef, vegetables, and pasta simmer together, they create a rich and cohesive dish that's bursting with flavor. It’s a great way to infuse your meal with depth without requiring complicated techniques.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Old Fashioned Goulash is also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go on those busy days when cooking feels like a chore.

When stored properly, goulash can last for several days in the fridge and even longer in the freezer. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in minutes. It’s a fantastic way to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor or comfort.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Brown the Meat

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your Old Fashioned Goulash!

Garnish with parsley if desired and enjoy with a side of bread!

Tips for the Best Goulash

For the best flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. This combination adds an extra layer of savory goodness to your goulash. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes; while elbow macaroni is traditional, shells or penne can provide a fun twist.

Don't skip the seasoning! Italian seasoning is a must, but you can also enhance the dish with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of flavors that suits your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Old Fashioned Goulash pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. A fresh garden salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty goulash, making for a well-rounded meal.

If you want to elevate your goulash experience, consider topping it with freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream. These additions can provide creaminess and enhance the overall flavor profile, making every bite even more satisfying.

Storing and Reheating

To store your goulash, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture, as pasta tends to absorb liquid during storage.

For best results, reheat your goulash on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming. With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Old Fashioned Goulash anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.