Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Introduction

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, tender macaroni, tomatoes, and savory seasonings. It is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners.

Origin and Cultural Significance

American goulash is inspired by Hungarian goulash, a traditional stew known for its paprika and rich flavors. Over time, American home cooks developed their own version using ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce. Today, it remains a popular comfort food in many American households.

Ingredients Quantity

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

Optional Additions

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 chopped green bell pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Sliced mushrooms for extra flavor

Tips for Success

• Brown the ground beef thoroughly for a richer flavor.
• Use elbow macaroni or another small pasta shape.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
• Add extra broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
• Let the goulash rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Instructions

• In a large pot, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat. Drain excess grease if necessary.
• Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Add the uncooked macaroni and stir well.
• Reduce the heat, cover partially, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender. Add more broth if needed.
• If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
• Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Description

This Old Fashioned Goulash features tender macaroni coated in a rich tomato sauce with savory ground beef and aromatic seasonings. Every bite delivers classic homemade flavor, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings without optional cheese.

• Calories: 380–450
• Protein: 22–27 g
• Carbohydrates: 38–45 g
• Fat: 14–20 g
• Fiber: 3–5 g
• Sodium: 500–800 mg

Actual values vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort-food favorite that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal. Its easy preparation and family-friendly taste make it a recipe worth keeping.

Recommendation

Serve this goulash with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm garlic bread. It also makes excellent leftovers; refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, choose lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole-wheat macaroni, and low-sodium beef broth. Add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to increase fiber and nutrients without sacrificing the comforting taste of this classic dish.