Old Fashioned Goulash

Name: Old Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 cups elbow macaroni; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this delicious Old Fashioned Goulash recipe that’s packed with comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. This one-pot dish combines tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce for a cozy meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for chilly nights, this goulash is quick to prepare and will surely become a go-to comfort food staple in your home.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-12-11T13:55:53.883Z

This Old Fashioned Goulash has been a family favorite for generations. It brings together simple ingredients for a meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

A Hearty Family Meal

Old Fashioned Goulash is not just any meal; it's a comforting blend of flavors that evokes the warmth of home. This one-pot wonder is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Packed with protein from the ground beef and carbohydrate goodness from the elbow macaroni, this recipe fulfills both heart and hunger. What’s more, it is versatile—adjust the spice level or add extra vegetables to cater to your family’s preferences.

This dish invites creativity; you can easily substitute the ground beef with turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian version. The ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a hearty sauce that layers the macaroni and gives it a distinct flavor. Goulash is also budget-friendly, making it an accessible option for families looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of Old Fashioned Goulash is its superb meal prep potential. Cook a large batch, and you have fantastic leftovers that only taste better the next day. Simply store the goulash in airtight containers, and you can easily reheat portions throughout the week. This makes it an ideal choice for busy nights when you don’t have the time to cook from scratch.

For those who love to freeze meals, goulash holds up wonderfully in the freezer. Portion the dish into individual servings, and you’ll have a convenient and satisfying meal ready to go anytime. Just remember to let it cool before sealing, and it will retain its flavors and textures beautifully for weeks.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your goulash with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crunch of a salad complements the hearty texture of the goulash, providing a balance that makes the meal more enjoyable. You can also offer grated cheese on the side, allowing everyone to personalize their bowl with a sprinkle of cheese for a creamy finish.

For added flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the dish and add complexity. Don't forget to have some extra tomato sauce on hand for those who like their goulash a bit saucier. With these serving suggestions, you can transform a simple dinner into a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups elbow macaroni
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting for an easier cooking experience.

Cooking Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Old Fashioned Goulash!

Storage Tips

When it comes to storing your Old Fashioned Goulash, it’s important to let it cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. Use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh, and refrigerate for up to three days. If you prefer to freeze goulash for longer storage, consider using freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, you can either use the microwave for quick meals or heat it gently on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or extra beef broth to ensure it stays moist while reheating. This thoughtful approach to storage will help maintain the flavors and textures of your homemade goulash.

Customize Your Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a versatile dish, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of pasta such as penne or rotini for a fun twist on the traditional recipe.

If you're a spice lover, try incorporating chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to give your goulash a kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, so feel free to get creative and make it your own while still enjoying the classic comfort it offers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite pasta shape.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just reheat before serving.