As a kid, I never truly appreciated old-fashioned goulash—but now, it’s one of my favorite comfort meals! This cozy, one-pot dish combines tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for the ultimate nostalgic dinner. It’s simple, affordable, and always hits the spot—just like mom used to make.
🍝 Why You’ll Love This Goulash Recipe
✅ Budget-Friendly: A pound of ground beef goes a long way when mixed with pasta and a flavorful sauce.
✅ Quick & Easy: Made with simple pantry staples for a no-fuss weeknight dinner.
✅ Totally Customizable: Swap the meat, add veggies, or tweak the spices to make it your own.
✅ Family Favorite: Everyone loves this hearty, satisfying classic!
🇺🇸 What Is Goulash?
Goulash is a classic comfort food made with ground meat, pasta, and a zesty tomato-based sauce. While American goulash is a simple stovetop dish, Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked stew made with beef chunks, paprika, and root vegetables.
This version—American-style—is all about ease and flavor: ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and savory herbs that make it feel like home.
🥕 Add-Ins & Variations
Want to make it your own? Try adding:
- Classic veggies: Bell peppers, onions, diced tomatoes
- Hearty extras: Carrots, potatoes, or rutabaga for a stew-like texture
- Healthy boost: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra greens
Or switch things up by using ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor twist.
🍽️ What to Serve with Goulash
Goulash is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:
- A side of steamed broccoli or green beans
- A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into that delicious sauce
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 lbs ground beef
- ½ onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 28 oz tomato sauce
- 20 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- ¼ tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp parsley
- ¼ tsp thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Stovetop Method
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni for about 4 minutes (slightly underdone). Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and onions over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until browned.
3️⃣ Add Flavor:
Stir in garlic and Worcestershire sauce; cook for 30 seconds.
4️⃣ Simmer the Sauce:
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all seasonings. Stir well, reduce heat, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine:
Stir in the cooked macaroni and simmer for 3–4 more minutes.
6️⃣ Cheesy Finish (Optional):
Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Slow Cooker Method
1️⃣ Brown ground beef and onions, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2️⃣ Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
3️⃣ Cover and cook on Low for 2 hours.
4️⃣ Cook pasta separately for 4 minutes, drain, and stir into the slow cooker.
5️⃣ Continue cooking for 1 more hour. Add cheese at the end if desired.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned goulash is a simple, budget-friendly classic that never goes out of style. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect meal to bring everyone around the table. Whether you make it stovetop or in a slow cooker, this cozy dish will always taste like home.