Old Fashioned Goulash

 

Old Fashioned Goulash: A Comfort Food Classic That Never Gets Old

Few dishes capture the heart of home cooking quite like Old Fashioned Goulash. It’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations—simple, hearty, budget-friendly, and full of cozy flavor. Known for its tender ground beef, soft elbow macaroni, and savory tomato base, this classic American goulash brings back memories of family dinners, chilly nights, and that unmistakable smell of something simmering on the stove.

Whether you’re craving comfort or cooking for a crowd, this old-school favorite is always a hit.

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A Dish Rooted in Tradition

While Hungarian goulash is a stew featuring beef and paprika, the American version that became popular in mid-century kitchens is much simpler:

• ground beef

• onions

• tomatoes

• elbow macaroni

It’s comfort food at its finest—easy, filling, and made with pantry staples.

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⭐ Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, but here’s the classic version:

Meat & Aromatics

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce & Seasoning

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)

• 1 cup beef broth or water

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1–2 bay leaves (optional)

Pasta

• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

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🍲 How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

1. Brown the Beef

In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
Drain excess fat for a cleaner, lighter dish.

2. Add Aromatics

Stir in diced onion and minced garlic.
Sauté until softened and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes.

3. Build the Sauce

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), broth, and seasonings.
Stir well to combine.
Drop in bay leaves for extra flavor.

4. Simmer the Goodness

Let the mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.
This helps the flavors deepen and mellow.

5. Add the Pasta

Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

The pasta will cook right in the sauce, soaking up all that delicious flavor.

6. Taste & Serve

Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, preferably with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh parsley.

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💡 Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Goulash

• Use broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

• Add Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory notes.

• Stir in corn or bell peppers for added texture and sweetness.

• For creaminess, finish with a splash of heavy cream or a handful of cheddar.

• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

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🍽️ How to Serve It

Old fashioned goulash is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty bread

• A simple green salad

• Pickles (a Midwest favorite!)

• Steamed vegetables

Its versatility makes it ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or reheatable meal prep.

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❤️ Why We Love This Recipe

This is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition.
It’s the kind of meal that reminds us of family tables, second helpings, and the warmth of home. Old fashioned goulash stays timeless because it’s simple, satisfying, and made with love.