Old-Fashioned Goulash – Hearty & Comforting Dinner

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food recipe, combining tender beef, hearty macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is nostalgic, filling, and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and comforting one-pot dinner
• Tender beef with perfectly cooked pasta
• Simple ingredients you probably already have
• Ideal for meal prep or family dinners
• Rich, flavorful tomato sauce that warms the soul

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well.
4. Season with paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
• Swap elbow macaroni for shells, penne, or rotini
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor
• For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
• Freeze goulash without cheese for up to 2 months
• Add cheese fresh when reheating for best results
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Add a dollop of sour cream for richness
• Serve in bowls topped with extra shredded cheese
• Perfect alongside roasted vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Old-Fashioned Goulash tastes great the next day, as flavors deepen when stored overnight.

Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely. Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works well.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes to reduce liquid or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles.

Ready to Make It?

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic, hearty, and comforting dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough for family dinners. Cozy, flavorful, and loaded with tender beef and pasta, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. Save it now and enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal tonight.

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