If you’re looking for a classic, comforting meal that brings back childhood memories, Old Fashioned Goulash is the perfect dish. This hearty, rich, and flavorful recipe is packed with juicy ground beef, tender macaroni, melty cheddar cheese, and a rich tomato sauce that will have your family coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring only simple pantry staples, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this goulash comes together in under 45 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients like pasta, ground beef, and canned tomatoes.
- Feeds a Crowd: Makes 8 generous servings, perfect for large families or meal prep.
- Rich and Hearty: The savory tomato sauce, seasoned beef, and melted cheddar cheese make this dish irresistibly delicious.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors meld together even better the next day!
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash
This easy goulash recipe requires simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that create a rich and comforting meal.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni – Classic pasta shape that holds onto the sauce perfectly.
- 2 pounds ground beef – Provides the hearty base for this dish.
- 1 onion, finely chopped – Adds depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall taste with aromatic richness.
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami richness.
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce – Creates the base for the rich, savory sauce.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes – Adds texture and slight acidity.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning – Brings in a balanced mix of herbs.
- 2 teaspoons salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight spice.
Cheese:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Gives the dish a creamy, cheesy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Old Fashioned Goulash
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook for 3 minutes less than the box directions to keep the pasta slightly firm, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion. Break up the beef as it cooks, stirring occasionally for 6-7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Combine the Macaroni and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake
If using an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and place it directly in the oven. If not, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, then sprinkle the cheese over the top.
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the goulash from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!
Tips for Making the Best Old Fashioned Goulash
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions provide the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Slightly undercooking the pasta helps it hold its texture when baked.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta to ensure it has the right balance of flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Try Different Cheeses: Instead of cheddar, use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Old Fashioned Goulash pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce.
- Green Salad – A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Mashed Potatoes – If you want extra comfort, serve this goulash over creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Goulash
Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, place the goulash in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Heat on 80% power in 30-second increments until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of beef broth or water and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 611 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 1296mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. With rich tomato sauce, hearty ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or meal prep, this hearty and satisfying meal will never go out of style. Try it today and enjoy a taste of nostalgia!
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and leave a comment below. Happy cooking! 🍽️