Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWith a spatula in one hand and a nostalgic playlist humming in the background, I stand over my stove, ready to whip up a dish that feels like a warm hug from childhood: Old Fashioned Goulash. This classic American comfort food embraces you with its hearty blend of savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and gooey cheddar cheese, all mingling in a robust tomato sauce. Best of all, this delightful meal can be on the table in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet quick. Imagine the smiles around the dinner table as your loved ones dig into this deliciously nostalgic dish—who can resist? So, are you ready to savor the magic of homemade Old Fashioned Goulash tonight? Why is this Goulash so Irresistible? Comforting warmth: Old Fashioned Goulash serves up nostalgic flavors that take you back to cherished family meals. Quick and easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need comfort food in a flash! Flavor-packed goodness: The blend of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese ensures every bite is deliciously satisfying. Versatile options: Feel free to customize! Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a hint of spice to make it your own. For more exciting variations, check out Shrimp Avocado Rice. Family favorite: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, sure to bring everyone together around the table for a memorable meal. Old Fashioned Goulash Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create this hearty classic! For the Pasta Elbow Macaroni – This small pasta shape provides the perfect base for capturing all the flavors of the goulash. For the Meat Ground Beef – The star protein that imparts richness and flavor; swap for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option. For the Vegetables Onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions are the best choices here. Garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the savory notes; use minced for maximum flavor. For the Sauce Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami and depth to the dish; feel free to substitute with soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Tomato Sauce – Acts as the sauce base, providing moisture; consider low-sodium varieties for a healthier take. Diced Tomatoes – Adds rich texture; choose petite diced tomatoes for a smooth consistency. For the Seasoning Italian Seasoning – This herb blend gives the classic flavor; can be substituted with individual herbs like basil and oregano as needed. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor; adjust to suit your taste preferences. For the Cheese Cheddar Cheese, shredded – Adds a creamy, rich finish to the dish; mozzarella also works well for a different cheese flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Goulash Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when it’s time to bake your Old Fashioned Goulash. This step will help achieve that bubbly, golden cheese topping that everyone will love. Step 2: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 3 minutes less than the package directions suggest—this will help prevent sogginess while baking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onions In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef along with the finely chopped onions for about 6-7 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat to keep the goulash light. Step 4: Add Garlic Once the beef and onions are nicely browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn. This aromatic touch will enhance the flavor of your Old Fashioned Goulash beautifully. Step 5: Combine Sauces Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes into the mixture; this will be the heart of your goulash. Mix well until fully combined, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. Step 6: Season the Mixture Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat and sauce mixture. This step is crucial to bring out the rich flavors of your Old Fashioned Goulash. Step 7: Incorporate Pasta and Cheese Now fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet, stirring gently until everything is well-combined. This mixture should be hearty and creamy, showcasing the rustic charm of traditional goulash. Step 8: Bake the Goulash If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Otherwise, carefully transfer the goulash to a suitable casserole dish before baking. This final step will create a deliciously comforting texture that’s perfect for serving. Make Ahead Options These Old Fashioned Goulash preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can cook the meat and vegetables (ground beef, onions, and garlic) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can prepare the pasta and combine it with the sauces, allowing all those rich flavors to meld overnight. To maintain optimal taste, refrigerate everything in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the prepared components together with your cooked macaroni, add shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal on the table with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Goulash Brown the Beef Properly: Make sure to brown the ground beef until fully cooked and drain off excess fat. This ensures your Old Fashioned Goulash isn’t greasy, enhancing its flavors. Perfect Pasta Texture: Avoid overcooking the elbow macaroni; follow package directions but cook for just 3 minutes less. It should be al dente to hold up while baking. Season Boldly: Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Remember, seasoning makes all the difference! Don’t skimp on Italian seasoning for a flavor boost. Bake Covered First: If baking in a casserole dish, cover it with aluminum foil for the first half to help steam the cheese into melty perfection. Leftover Love: Have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container. They can last for up to 4 days in the fridge, and they taste even better the next day! How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Goulash Fridge: Store leftover Old Fashioned Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to preserve freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if it appears dry. Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for quick meals on busy nights—just grab and heat, and enjoy the hearty comfort anytime! Old Fashioned Goulash Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on classic Old Fashioned Goulash! Veggie-Packed: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for a boost of nutrition and earthy flavor. These vibrant additions not only enhance the dish but also give it a beautiful color. Spicy Kick: Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for extra heat. A little warmth can bring the flavors to life and add excitement to each bite. Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs. Many gluten-free pastas are now just as tasty and hearty, so no one will miss the traditional option! Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or gouda for a unique cheese flavor. The right cheese can elevate your goulash to a whole new level—it’s all about personal preference! Hearty Protein: Opt for ground turkey or plant-based ground meat instead of beef for a lighter option. This variation doesn’t compromise on flavor but provides a healthier twist. Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before baking for a creamier texture. This little addition transforms the goulash into a rich, luxurious dish. Italian Twist: Mix in some Italian sausage for an extra-layered flavor profile. The savory spices in sausage could harmonize beautifully with the traditional goulash elements. For a refreshing change of pace from goulash, why not try my Shrimp Avocado Rice? It’s another deliciously comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles to your dinner table! What to Serve with Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash? Cozy up your dinner table with complementary sides that enhance the delightful flavors of this satisfying dish. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky twist of warm bread is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce. A crisp exterior paired with a soft center creates a perfect contrast to the creamy goulash. Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a vibrant crunch and balances the hearty nature of the goulash. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing bite in between spoonfuls. Buttered Saltine Crackers: Classic comfort meets simplicity with crunchy saltines spread with a bit of butter. Their lightness complements the rich goulash beautifully while adding an enjoyable crunch to the meal. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini brings earthy sweetness and a delightful char that pairs well with the flavors of goulash. You can season them simply with salt and pepper for a wholesome touch. Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy cabbage slaw offers a bright contrast to the warm goulash, enhancing each mouthful. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some crunch into your comforting meal. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, adds depth and richness to your dining experience. It complements the savory notes of the goulash while elevating the overall meal enjoyment. Chocolate Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of moist chocolate cake. Its rich, velvety texture balances beautifully with the hearty goulash, leaving everyone with satisfied smiles. Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pasta for Old Fashioned Goulash? Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for Old Fashioned Goulash, as its shape holds the sauce beautifully. If you prefer a different texture, you can also use shell pasta or any small pasta shapes, just ensure they cook evenly to complement the other ingredients of the dish. What’s the best way to store leftover Old Fashioned Goulash? Store your leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will retain its delicious flavor for up to 4 days. For optimal storage, allow the goulash to cool completely before sealing. Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash? If so, how? Very! To freeze Old Fashioned Goulash, first let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. What can I do if my goulash is too watery? If you find your goulash is too watery after cooking, don’t worry! You can let it simmer on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, to reduce the liquid for about 5-10 minutes. Additionally, incorporating a tablespoon or two of tomato paste can help thicken the sauce while enhancing the flavor. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with Old Fashioned Goulash? Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. You can also replace ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. As always, be aware of any allergens, particularly with the Worcestershire sauce and cheese—look for gluten-free or dairy-free variants as needed. Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash for Cozy Weeknight Comfort Enjoy a warm, nostalgic bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash, combining savory ground beef, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese in a delicious tomato sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta2 cups Elbow Macaroni This small pasta shape provides the perfect base for capturing all the flavors of the goulash.For the Meat1 pound Ground Beef The star protein that imparts richness and flavor; swap for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.For the Vegetables1 medium Onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions are the best choices here.2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the savory notes; use minced for maximum flavor.For the Sauce1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Brings umami and depth to the dish; feel free to substitute with soy sauce for a gluten-free version.1 can Tomato Sauce Acts as the sauce base, providing moisture; consider low-sodium varieties for a healthier take.1 can Diced Tomatoes Adds rich texture; choose petite diced tomatoes for a smooth consistency.For the Seasoning1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning This herb blend gives the classic flavor; can be substituted with individual herbs like basil and oregano as needed.to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential for flavor; adjust to suit your taste preferences.For the Cheese2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded Adds a creamy, rich finish to the dish; mozzarella also works well for a different cheese flavor. Equipment Large PotLarge SkilletCasserole Dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned GoulashPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 3 minutes less than the package directions suggest; drain pasta and set it aside.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onions for about 6-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.Stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes; mix well and let flavors meld for 2-3 minutes over medium heat.Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and season with salt and black pepper to taste; stir well.Fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until well-combined.Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, brown the beef properly and avoid overcooking the pasta. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
