Old-Fashioned Goulash

Old-Fashioned Goulash

Posted on January 27, 2025
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This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty, and nostalgic dish that’s been a staple in American households for generations. Made with tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of spices, this one-pot wonder is both easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to bring back childhood memories, this goulash will hit the spot!

Ingredients

For the Goulash:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 3 cups beef broth (or water with 1 bouillon cube)
  • 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

For Serving:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.
  2. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper (if using) to the pot with the cooked beef.
  2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

  1. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

  1. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Final Touches

  1. Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed.
  2. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the goulash and let it melt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the goulash warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and color. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips

  1. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
  2. Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella directly into the goulash for a creamy, cheesy version.
  3. Veggie Add-Ins: Bulk up the dish by adding diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even frozen peas.
  4. Pasta Choices: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with small shells, rotini, or penne pasta.
  5. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.

Storage Instructions

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  2. Freezing: Freeze in individual portions or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  3. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Variations

  1. Hungarian-Inspired Goulash: Add 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika and use chunks of beef instead of ground beef for a more traditional Hungarian-style goulash.
  2. Vegetarian Goulash: Skip the meat and add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  3. Cheesy Baked Goulash: After cooking, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
  4. One-Pot Chili Goulash: Add a can of kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin for a chili-inspired twist.
  5. Low-Carb Option: Replace the macaroni with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g

FAQ

1. What is the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash traditionally features chunks of beef, vegetables, and a heavy dose of paprika in a stew-like consistency. American goulash, on the other hand, is more of a pasta-based casserole with ground beef, tomato sauce, and seasonings.

2. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as these types of pasta may cook differently.

3. What can I pair with this dish?
Serve goulash with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything (except the pasta) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily. Use a larger pot to ensure everything cooks evenly.