This old-fashioned goulash recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Combining ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this classic dish is simple to make and sure to satisfy.
Old-fashioned goulash is a timeless American comfort food. This recipe features ground beef simmered in a savory sauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices. The addition of melted cheddar cheese creates a creamy texture and adds a layer of richness to the dish. Elbow macaroni completes the classic combination, providing a satisfyingly chewy element. This easy-to-follow recipe takes only 45 minutes to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
This old-fashioned goulash recipe offers a number of advantages that make it a great choice for home cooks:
- Simplicity: With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow even for beginners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Goulash can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.
- Nutritious Comfort Food: This dish provides a good source of protein from the ground beef and offers the added benefit of vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes. It’s a comforting meal you can enjoy without feeling guilty.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Goulash
This old-fashioned goulash recipe calls for common pantry staples:
- Elbow macaroni
- Ground beef
- Onion (yellow, red, or white)
- Garlic
- Worcestershire sauce
- Canned tomato sauce
- Canned diced tomatoes (petite diced preferred)
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese (shredded yourself for best results)
What is Italian Seasoning?
Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs commonly used in Italian cuisine. It typically includes basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. You can find pre-mixed Italian seasoning at most grocery stores.
Making Old-Fashioned Goulash: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious old-fashioned goulash:
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions, reducing the cooking time by 3 minutes to ensure it remains al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over high heat, brown the ground beef and sauté the chopped onions until softened. Drain off any excess fat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Incorporate Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Bake (Optional): If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish before baking.
Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Salt the Pasta Water: Adding salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the macaroni.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the amount of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your preference.
- Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Browning the ground beef well develops a richer flavor in the dish.
Storing and Reheating Old-Fashioned Goulash
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals on 80% power, or until heated through. You can also freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
