Looking for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner that brings back warm childhood memories? This old-fashioned goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food—made with simple pantry ingredients, packed with flavor, and ready in just one pot.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this classic American-style goulash combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce into one satisfying meal your whole family will love.
Why This Old-Fashioned Goulash Is So Popular
✅ Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes
✅ One-pot meal – minimal cleanup
✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Kid-approved comfort food
✅ Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Tips for the Best Goulash
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease
Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking
Add a bit more broth if the mixture becomes too thick
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of chili flakes
Variations You Can Try
🥕 Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn
🌶️ Make it spicy with hot sauce or cayenne pepper
🧀 Use mozzarella or a cheese blend instead of cheddar
🍝 Swap macaroni for other small pasta shapes
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between American goulash and Hungarian goulash?
American goulash is a quick, one-pot pasta dish with ground beef and tomato sauce, while Hungarian goulash is a traditional soup or stew made with chunks of beef and paprika.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely—ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned goulash recipe is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for feeding a hungry family without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you loved this recipe, be sure to bookmark it, share it with friends, and add it to your weekly dinner rotation!
If you want, I can also create:
🔥 A viral Pinterest title + description
