There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of old-fashioned goulash to bring comfort to the table. This hearty dish, packed with tender beef, savory tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, is a nostalgic favorite that has stood the test of time.

I grew up eating this classic goulash at family gatherings, where the rich aroma of simmering beef and spices filled the kitchen. It's a simple, budget-friendly meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's equal parts comforting and delicious. This old-fashioned goulash is a true crowd-pleaser, and here's why.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. No complicated steps, just classic flavors coming together effortlessly.

It’s also budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes are pantry staples that won’t break the bank, making this a great option for feeding a family on a budget.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can adjust the seasonings, swap in different proteins, or even add extra vegetables to suit your taste. It’s a forgiving recipe that works with what you have on hand.

Lastly, goulash is the perfect make-ahead meal. It reheats beautifully, meaning you can cook a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of old-fashioned goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying.

Ground beef is the star of this recipe. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though the taste will be slightly different.

Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provide the rich, tangy base of the dish. For an extra depth of flavor, fire-roasted tomatoes can be a great addition. If you like a little heat, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Elbow macaroni is the classic pasta choice for goulash. It soaks up all the delicious sauce and adds a wonderful texture. If you don’t have macaroni, any short pasta like rotini or penne will work just fine.

Garlic and onions bring an essential depth of flavor to the dish. Sautéing them with the beef allows their natural sweetness to shine, creating a rich and aromatic base.

A blend of seasonings, including paprika, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves, adds the perfect balance of warmth and spice. Paprika, in particular, is key to achieving that traditional goulash flavor.

If you have a Dutch oven or a large skillet, it will be the perfect vessel for cooking this dish, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully as everything simmers together.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making this goulash is a simple process that results in a deeply flavorful and comforting dish. Let’s go step by step.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks, letting it develop a nice, rich color. Once the beef is mostly cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Next, add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir them into the beef and cook for a few minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well, then add the seasonings – paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drop in a couple of bay leaves for an extra boost of flavor. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot until just al dente. Drain the pasta and stir it into the beef mixture. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes so the pasta can absorb some of the delicious sauce.

Remove the bay leaves, give the goulash a final stir, and taste for seasoning adjustments. If you like, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for extra richness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

This old-fashioned goulash stores beautifully, making it a fantastic meal for leftovers.

For refrigeration, allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.

For freezing, portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the goulash over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about goulash is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to customize it to your liking.

For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The texture remains similar, but the dish will be lighter in fat.

Want to add more veggies? Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. This is a great way to make the dish even heartier.

If you love spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A little bit of heat can take the flavors to the next level.

For a creamier version, stir in a bit of sour cream or shredded cheese at the end of cooking. This adds a delicious richness and makes the dish extra indulgent.

Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your seasonings and broth are gluten-free as well. The result will be just as delicious.

Old-fashioned goulash is a dish that’s as comforting as it is flexible. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. However you prepare it, one thing is certain – this meal is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Enjoy!