Old-Fashioned Goulash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This goulash is a perfect weeknight meal—quick, simple, and filling. The blend of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices creates a rich, hearty sauce that soaks into the pasta. It’s versatile, so you can add extra veggies or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef or turkey

• 3 tsp minced garlic

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce

• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained

• 2 ½ cups water

• ½ cup beef broth

• ⅓ cup olive oil

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

• Optional add-ins: shredded cheese, bell peppers, mushrooms, peas

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and onion, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

2. Drain excess grease, then add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, beef broth, olive oil, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

3. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, ensuring pasta is submerged in sauce. Reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Optional: Stir in cheese or vegetables.

5. Serve hot with optional toppings like chopped parsley or sour cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

• Vegetarian Goulash: Replace meat with extra vegetables or plant-based meat.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, goulash tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

How do I make this spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta like penne or rotini.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use ground turkey, add more veggies, and opt for whole wheat pasta.

Can I freeze goulash?

Yes, goulash freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, brown the meat first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes.

What vegetables can I add to goulash?

Bell peppers, zucchini, or peas work well in this dish.

Can I use a different type of meat?

You can substitute beef with turkey or plant-based options.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, you can omit soy sauce, but it adds depth and umami to the dish.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

Check for tenderness and ensure the pasta has absorbed enough sauce after 20-25 minutes of simmering.

Conclusion

This old-fashioned goulash recipe is a perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. It’s easy to make, versatile, and satisfying—ideal for busy nights or family dinners. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty dish and savor the nostalgic flavors!

Old-Fashioned Goulash

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. This classic one-pot dish combines tender elbow macaroni, ground beef, tomatoes, and a savory, spiced sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, quick to prepare and filling, with endless variations. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings back nostalgic family meal vibes!

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Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef or turkey

3 tsp minced garlic

1 large yellow onion, diced

2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce

2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained

2 ½ cups water

½ cup beef broth

⅓ cup olive oil

3 tbsp soy sauce

2 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Optional Add-ins:

Shredded cheese

Bell peppers, mushrooms, peas

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat for 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and diced onion, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft.

2. Add Sauce Ingredients: Drain any excess grease from the meat. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, beef broth, olive oil, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

3. Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, stir in cheese or vegetables for added flavor and texture.

5. Serve: Serve hot, topped with optional garnishes like chopped parsley or sour cream.

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Notes

Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

Vegetarian: Substitute meat with extra vegetables or plant-based protein.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Goulash also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or broth.