If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is just what you need. With simple pantry staples like ground beef, macaroni, and stewed tomatoes coming together in a rustic, flavorful mix, it’s the kind of dish that brings cozy nostalgia and satisfying flavors to the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or want a reliable weeknight favorite, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe never fails to deliver on taste and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, creating a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes the dish so beloved. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1/2 lb macaroni: Provides the tender, chewy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: The rich, savory heart of the dish, adding satisfying protein and depth.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweet, aromatic layers that bring everything to life.
- Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste: Carefully balanced seasonings that give the goulash its signature kick and warmth.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained: The main sauce ingredient, providing tangy sweetness and a luscious texture.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a subtle extra depth of tomato flavor and a hint of brightness.
- Tomato juice as needed: Useful for adjusting the sauce consistency to just the right level of sauciness.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by cooking the macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente according to the package directions. This step is crucial because you want those noodles firm enough to hold their shape, so they don’t get soggy when mixed with the sauce later on. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside while you get the rest going.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
In an extra-large skillet or dutch oven, brown the ground beef together with the diced onion. This builds the flavor foundation by caramelizing the onion’s natural sweetness and developing rich, savory notes in the beef. Be sure to stir frequently and break up any large chunks for even cooking.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomatoes
Drain excess fat from the skillet, then season the beef and onion mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce according to your taste buds. Once seasoned, add the undrained stewed tomatoes, mashing them up slightly to release their juices. Stir in the ketchup, blending all the elements into a thick, flavorful sauce that’s unmistakably “goulash.”
Step 4: Combine Macaroni with Beef Mixture
Now it’s time to bring it all together by adding the cooked macaroni directly into the tomato and beef sauce. Gently stir to make sure every noodle is coated with that lovely, rich sauce. This is where the magic happens and the dish really comes together in harmony.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Consistency
Give your goulash a taste and adjust the seasoning with more garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce if needed. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly stir in tomato juice until you hit the perfect consistency—rich but still saucy enough to coat the noodles.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve Hot
Let your goulash simmer gently on low heat for about 5 minutes to meld all the flavors and warm through. Serve it piping hot for maximum comfort and enjoyment—this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe truly shines when savored fresh and warm.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this humble dish beautifully. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little shredded cheddar cheese on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. These additions brighten the plate and add that lovely finishing touch to an already hearty meal.
Side Dishes
This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or buttered dinner rolls. A side of steamed green beans or roasted vegetables can add freshness and balance, rounding out the meal with complementary textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash in mini cast iron skillets or crockpots at your next gathering. It’s also great layered in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. Presentation can make this beloved classic feel even more special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, stash leftover Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as delicious—if not more—than the first serving.
Freezing
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy, comforting meal any day of the week.
Reheating
Reheat your goulash gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or tomato juice to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works well too—just stir halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, elbow noodles, shells, or even penne will work nicely. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta type so it stays tender but not mushy.
Is this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe spicy?
The recipe includes chili powder and hot sauce, but you can control how spicy it gets. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to suit your heat preference perfectly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to keep it meatless. Just remember to adjust seasoning and add extra umami ingredients for depth.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Low and slow on the stovetop with a splash of tomato juice or water helps retain moisture and texture. Covering the pan also keeps everything nice and juicy.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe scales up easily. Just be sure to use a large enough pot or skillet to accommodate larger volumes and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Its straightforward ingredients and straightforward prep combine into something truly special and satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and let its classic flavors warm your heart and home.
Print
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender macaroni with savory ground beef and stewed tomatoes, seasoned to taste with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce. This quick and flavorful one-pot meal is perfect for a family dinner, offering familiar flavors and satisfying texture with a rich tomato base and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1/2 lb macaroni
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
Seasonings and Sauces
- Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Tomato juice as needed
Instructions
- Cook macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown beef and onion: In an extra-large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef together with the diced onion over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked and onions are softened.
- Season and add tomatoes: Drain excess fat if necessary, then season the beef mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste. Add the undrained stewed tomatoes and ketchup, mashing the tomatoes slightly to mix well.
- Combine pasta and beef mixture: Stir the cooked macaroni into the beef and tomato mixture, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Adjust seasoning and add tomato juice: Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Add tomato juice if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Simmer and serve: Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes to meld flavors and warm through. Serve hot immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or hot sauce.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni for regular macaroni for traditional texture.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Adding vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
