Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and flavorful dish packed with tender beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. This classic American-style goulash is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying meal in just one pot. It’s warm, filling, and bursting with flavors that remind you of home-cooked goodness.

⏳ Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

📝 Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

🍨 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and fragrant. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot and stir well. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For another comforting dish, try Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs!

Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)

If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top and stir until melted. This adds a creamy, cheesy richness to the dish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve warm and enjoy this cozy, old-fashioned meal with crusty bread or a side salad.

🔥 Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Goulash

🍝 Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier version.
🍅 For a tangier flavor, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar.
🌶 Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
🧀 Mix in some Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meal for easy cleanup
Budget-friendly and made with simple ingredients
Hearty, filling, and family-approved
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

🥄 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 4g

❄️ Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: Prepare the goulash and let it cool before storing.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. If you enjoy hearty one-pot meals, check out Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes!

🍽️ Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich flavors in a simple, satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a nostalgic meal, this goulash delivers. Try it today and enjoy a taste of classic home-cooked goodness! 🍲✨