Name: Old-Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 tbsp olive oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavor and filling ingredients. It combines the perfect balance of savory ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes in a seasoned sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch ingredients and feed a large group without breaking the bank.

Old-Fashioned Goulash

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 tbsp olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to combine the flavors.
In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, stir in the cooked macaroni. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Total time: 40 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Goulash: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or beans for a vegetarian option.
Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, just before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for goulash?

Yes, you can use any small pasta like rotini, penne, or shells instead of elbow macaroni.

2. How do I make goulash spicier?

To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or fresh diced chilies to the sauce.

3. Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Goulash?

Yes, you can freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. Is goulash better the next day?

Yes, goulash often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef and will still provide a delicious flavor.

6. Can I add vegetables to the goulash?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

7. How do I make goulash without tomato paste?

If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use extra tomato sauce or a small amount of tomato puree as a substitute, though the consistency may vary slightly.

8. How long does goulash take to cook?

The cooking time for goulash is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes of simmering time for the sauce to thicken.

9. Can I use a slow cooker for goulash?

Yes, you can cook goulash in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using a large pot.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, comforting, and customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.