Oh, friends — I’m so happy you’re here for this one! This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out — hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. It’s that classic, homey dish Grandma used to make on chilly nights, where the kitchen smelled amazing and everyone came running to the table.
With tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and rich tomato goodness, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s simple, affordable, and downright delicious — the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
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Overview of the Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Goulash (also known as American Goulash) is a one-pot wonder that’s as easy to make as it is to love. It’s made with ground beef, tender pasta, and stewed tomatoes, all simmered together to create a saucy, savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 35 minutes!
- Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Family favorite: Kids and adults both love it.
- Budget-friendly: Feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.
What It Tastes Like
Rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned with a little tang from the tomatoes and a touch of spice from the chili powder and hot sauce. The pasta soaks up all that saucy flavor, making every bite hearty and satisfying.
Benefits of This Recipe
- One pot = easy cleanup!
- Easy to customize to your taste.
- Freezer-friendly for meal prep.
- Comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
- ½ lb macaroni
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce, to taste
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Tomato juice, as needed (for a saucier consistency)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat until the meat is cooked through and the onions are tender. Drain off any excess fat.
Step 3: Season It Up
Add garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and a few dashes of hot sauce to taste. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Ketchup
Crush the stewed tomatoes with a spoon or your hands, then stir them (with their juices) into the beef mixture. Add ketchup for a little sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked macaroni to the beef-tomato mixture and stir well to coat. If you prefer a saucier texture, pour in a bit of tomato juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot and enjoy that old-fashioned comfort!
What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Goulash
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it’s even better with:
- Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
- Simple green salad with ranch or vinaigrette
- Steamed veggies like corn or green beans
- And maybe a slice of chocolate pie for dessert 😉
Tips for the Best Goulash
- Use lean ground beef: Keeps the dish rich without being greasy.
- Crush tomatoes by hand: It gives a rustic texture and old-school flavor.
- Let it rest: Sitting for 5–10 minutes before serving thickens the sauce perfectly.
- Customize it: Add shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of corn!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of tomato juice if needed.
General Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, penne, or rotini all work beautifully.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add extra hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes — just use about 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and a bit of tomato paste for richness.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the kind of timeless comfort food that never goes out of style — hearty, flavorful, and made with love. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the dinner table.
If you loved this recipe, don’t miss my Beef and Tomato Skillet Pasta and Homestyle Chili Mac — two more cozy, one-pot favorites perfect for busy weeknights!
Interactive Element
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Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 640mg
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