There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash to bring back comforting memories of home-cooked meals. This classic dish, filled with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, is the epitome of simple, satisfying comfort food.

I first encountered this recipe in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices filled the air. She always made extra, knowing that everyone would come back for seconds. Now, it’s a staple in my own home, perfect for busy weeknights when I need something quick, easy, and undeniably delicious.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with an easy, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will enjoy.

First off, this recipe is incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 40 minutes.

It's also wonderfully budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes are inexpensive yet filling, making this dish perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

The flavors only get better over time. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Finally, this dish is endlessly customizable. Whether you like yours spicy, extra cheesy, or packed with veggies, you can easily adapt it to your tastes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating a perfectly balanced dish.

Ground beef is the heart of this recipe, providing richness and depth. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.

Elbow macaroni is the classic pasta choice for goulash, soaking up the sauce while maintaining the perfect bite. If you don't have elbow macaroni on hand, rotini or small shells will work just as well.

Canned tomatoes form the base of the sauce, giving it that rich, tangy depth. I like using a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for the perfect texture and flavor.

Garlic and onions add an essential savory aroma and depth. Be sure to sauté them well to bring out their sweetness before adding the meat.

You’ll also need Italian seasoning, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce to bring all the flavors together. These ingredients add warmth, smokiness, and a touch of umami that make this goulash truly special.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making Old Fashioned Goulash is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Next, stir in your diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of the dish.

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

While the sauce is simmering, cook your elbow macaroni in a separate pot until it’s just shy of al dente. Drain and add it directly to the sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta in all that rich, savory goodness.

Let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is how well it stores and reheats.

For refrigeration, store leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day!

If you’d like to freeze it, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

For reheating, warm up portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its versatility. Here are some ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This simple addition brings a bit of heat without overpowering the dish.

If you love extra veggies, consider stirring in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. These ingredients not only add nutrition but also enhance the texture and flavor.

For a richer, creamier sauce, try stirring in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

Gluten-free? No problem! Swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.

Want a protein boost? You can substitute part of the ground beef with cooked lentils or beans for a heartier, plant-based variation.

No matter how you make it, Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!