Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

A true classic that’s been cherished for generations, Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, hearty macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce for a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or as a nostalgic treat, this dish is as economical as it is delicious. With a balance of flavors and a rich, meaty base, it’s no surprise that goulash has stood the test of time. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make a meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

For the Goulash:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for lighter flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

For Garnish:

• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the diced onion and garlic to the browned beef.
2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

1. Stir in the uncooked macaroni, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
2. Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. If the goulash is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the goulash hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
2. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This dish is best served warm and fresh, but it tastes even better as leftovers! Pair it with garlic bread or steamed veggies for a hearty dinner.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Goulash freezes well. Let it cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Helpful Notes

• Customizable Protein: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat to suit your dietary preferences.
• Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow pasta and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
• Make It Cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese at the end for a creamier, cheesier version.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Alton Brown: “To deepen the flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine before adding the tomatoes and broth.”
• Chef Rachael Ray: “Always let the pasta cook in the sauce—it absorbs all the flavor and makes the dish more cohesive.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of elegance.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes! Penne, shells, or even rotini work well, but cooking times may vary.
2. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
   Soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option) are great substitutes.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, replace the beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
4. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
   Stir occasionally and monitor closely after 10 minutes of simmering.
5. What if my goulash is too thick?
   Add a splash of broth or water and stir until it reaches your preferred consistency.
6. Can I add cheese directly to the pot?
   Absolutely. Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy, cheesy version of goulash.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough to hold the ingredients.
8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, use about 4–5 fresh tomatoes, diced, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. What sides go well with goulash?
   Garlic bread, cornbread, or a green salad complement the dish beautifully.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Yes, brown the beef and aromatics first, then combine all ingredients (except pasta) in the slow cooker. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.