Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of old-fashioned goulash to bring back warm childhood memories. This comforting dish, packed with hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, is a nostalgic favorite for many.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this recipe at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where the scent of simmering spices filled the air. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it to be even easier while keeping all the traditional flavors intact. It’s the perfect go-to meal for busy nights when you need something satisfying and fuss-free.

Why You'll Love This Old-Fashioned Goulash

This classic goulash is the ultimate comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying dish. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and a few pantry staples, you can have a hearty dinner ready in under 45 minutes. No complicated steps or fancy ingredients—just good old-fashioned cooking.

It’s also a budget-friendly option. Ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes come together to create a meal that’s both filling and affordable. Perfect for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this goulash is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer turkey instead of beef or want to sneak in extra veggies, this recipe is adaptable to suit your taste.

And of course, the flavor is simply irresistible. The combination of savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and warm spices creates a rich, comforting dish that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this old-fashioned goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a role in making this dish the cozy classic it is.

Ground beef is the foundation of this recipe. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles.

Pasta gives the dish its signature heartiness. Traditional elbow macaroni works best, as it holds up well in the sauce and soaks up all the delicious flavors. If you want to change it up, small shells or rotini are great alternatives.

Canned tomatoes provide the rich, tangy base for the sauce. I like using a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for the perfect texture and depth of flavor. For an extra kick, you can add fire-roasted tomatoes.

Seasonings make all the difference. A mix of garlic, onion, paprika, and Italian seasoning brings warmth and depth to the dish. Don't forget a touch of Worcestershire sauce—it adds a subtle umami flavor that takes the sauce to the next level.

You'll also need beef broth to enhance the richness of the sauce and ensure the pasta cooks to perfection. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute it with water or vegetable broth.

For this recipe, a large Dutch oven or deep skillet works best, as it provides enough space for all the ingredients to simmer together beautifully.

How To Make This Old-Fashioned Goulash

Making this classic goulash is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a steaming pot of comfort ready to enjoy.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, and drain any excess grease once it's fully browned. This step ensures your dish isn’t overly greasy while still keeping all the delicious flavor.

Next, add the onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion turns soft and translucent, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This step is key to building a rich, aromatic base for your sauce.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Let everything simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, stir in the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to low and let the goulash simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed all those delicious flavors.

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with shredded cheese or fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which you might not, because this dish is so good!), storing and reheating goulash is a breeze.

To store, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, goulash freezes well. Simply place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the goulash in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring back the saucy consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about goulash is how easily you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

If you're looking for a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The result is just as delicious but a little lighter on calories.

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for added protein.

Want to add more heat and spice? Try stirring in a little smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

If you're a cheese lover, top your goulash with shredded cheddar or Parmesan. Stirring in a bit of cheese at the end creates an ultra-creamy, extra-comforting version of this dish.

For a gluten-free alternative, simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster than traditional options.

No matter how you make it, this old-fashioned goulash is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own—you might just discover a new favorite twist on this classic dish!

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