Old Fashioned Goulash

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners and classic home cooking.

Violet Hart

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:00:35.940Z

Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and will surely bring back cherished memories for many. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it's a meal that everyone will love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
  • Packed with flavors from seasoned ground beef and tomatoes
  • Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

A Taste of Tradition

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it's a nostalgic journey back to simpler times when families gathered around the dinner table to share stories and enjoy hearty food. This dish is a testament to the comforting nature of home cooking, combining everyday ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Each bite offers a warm embrace, reminding us of the love and care that goes into preparing a meal for those we cherish.

The simplicity of Old Fashioned Goulash is what makes it so beloved. With its roots in classic American cuisine, this dish has been passed down through generations, evolving yet retaining its core essence. The savory combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni creates a delightful harmony that appeals to both young and old, making it a staple in many households.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family gathering, preparing a cozy dinner for two, or looking for a quick weeknight meal, Old Fashioned Goulash fits the bill perfectly. Its versatility allows for endless variations, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. The dish can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs, making it an ideal choice for both small and large groups.

Not only is this goulash comforting and delicious, but it's also a budget-friendly option. Utilizing pantry staples like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, this recipe proves that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup time and maximizing flavor.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Old Fashioned Goulash, the possibilities are endless. Consider garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an added layer of flavor. A dollop of sour cream can introduce a creamy tang that balances the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.

For a complete meal, pair your goulash with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for meal prepping too; simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy the flavors even more the next day as they meld together.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to customize the recipe!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the macaroni is cooked and the sauce has thickened, serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious Old Fashioned Goulash!

Nutritional Benefits

Old Fashioned Goulash is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The inclusion of tomatoes adds a wealth of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for your immune system.

The elbow macaroni adds carbohydrates, essential for energy, making this dish an excellent choice for those needing a hearty meal after a long day. Additionally, by incorporating bell peppers and onions, you're enhancing the nutritional value with fiber and vital nutrients, making your goulash not just tasty but nutritious as well.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store Old Fashioned Goulash, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider portioning it out for easy reheating later on.

When you're ready to enjoy your goulash again, reheating is a breeze. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help restore its original texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

→ What can I serve with Goulash?

Goulash pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Goulash can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze goulash in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Old Fashioned Goulash

A hearty and comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners and classic home cooking.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration45 minutes
Overall Time60 minutes

Created by: Violet Hart

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bell pepper, chopped
  5. 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  6. 2 cups beef broth
  7. 2 cups elbow macaroni
  8. 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  9. 1 tsp paprika
  10. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.

Step 03

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 05

Once the macaroni is cooked and the sauce has thickened, serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 20g