Old Fashioned Goulash

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There’s something truly comforting about a hearty bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash. With its tender ground beef, savory tomato base, and tender elbow macaroni all simmered together in one skillet, this dish is the epitome of nostalgic, home-cooked goodness. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and makes you feel instantly at home.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple one-pot recipe is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. The best part? It’s budget-friendly, quick to whip up, and customizable based on what you have in your pantry. Old Fashioned Goulash delivers bold, comforting flavor in every bite without the need for fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless favorite because it checks all the boxes: it’s delicious, filling, and incredibly easy to make. The one-pot method means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

It has just the right balance of rich meatiness, savory sauce, and tender pasta—and the cheese on top melts into a gooey, irresistible layer that ties it all together. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for two with plans for leftovers, this dish adapts to every kitchen.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Goulash?

Traditional American-style goulash typically uses elbow macaroni because it holds the sauce well and creates the perfect bite-sized texture. That said, feel free to use small shells or rotini if you need a substitute. Just be sure to choose a pasta that cooks quickly and holds up to simmering in the sauce without falling apart. Elbows give it that classic look and feel we all know and love.

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Ingredients for the Old Fashioned Goulash

Each ingredient in this dish has a role to play, building flavor and texture in every bite.

• Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish, it adds savory richness and protein.
• Elbow Macaroni: This pasta holds onto the sauce well and gives that signature goulash texture.
• Bell Peppers (Green and Red): Adds sweetness and a mild crunch to balance the meatiness.
• Onion: Provides aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor.
• Garlic: A key aromatic that brings warmth and savoriness.
• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy and slightly acidic, they brighten up the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Forms the rich, thick base of the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs that elevate the flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Shredded Cheese: Optional, but adds a creamy, melty topping that makes the dish even more indulgent.

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How To Make the Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions, garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can combine.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the skillet. Pour in enough water or broth to just cover the pasta. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is tender (about 12–15 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

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How to Serve and Store Old Fashioned Goulash

This comforting skillet meal is best served hot, straight from the stove with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. It’s a full meal on its own but also works great with a side salad or crusty bread. This recipe generously feeds about 6 people, making it ideal for families or for meal prep.

For storing, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers—it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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What to Serve With Old Fashioned Goulash?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes a perfect companion to soak up the savory sauce.

Garden Salad

A simple green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the goulash.

Roasted Vegetables

Try a side of roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for a healthy touch.

Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

Tangy pickles or pickled onions can cut through the heaviness with a bright contrast.

Cornbread

Slightly sweet and crumbly, cornbread pairs beautifully with the bold flavors.

Steamed Green Beans

Light and simple, green beans add a crisp, clean bite to your meal.

Cucumber Salad

Refreshing cucumber salad with a touch of dill adds a cool element to your plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner option. It still provides plenty of flavor, especially with the tomato-based sauce and seasonings.

Is this the same as Hungarian goulash?

Not quite. Hungarian goulash is more of a stew with chunks of beef and a rich paprika-based broth, while Old Fashioned Goulash is an American comfort food classic made with ground beef and pasta.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! You can toss in extras like corn, peas, spinach, or mushrooms. It’s a flexible dish, so feel free to make it your own.

What cheese works best on top?

Shredded cheddar or mozzarella are great options. For a bolder flavor, try using a mix with Monterey Jack or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to bring in some heat.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with extra cheese? Add your favorite veggie twist?
I love hearing how others put their spin on these recipes. Questions are always welcome—let’s make cooking easier and more fun together.

Find more of my everyday recipes on my Life With Livia Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal that combines flavor, simplicity, and nostalgia. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a great go-to for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. This dish invites you to make it your own—whether that means adding veggies, turning up the heat, or piling on the cheese. One bite and you’ll see why it remains a classic on dinner tables everywhere.

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