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Old Fashioned Goulash
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OLD FASHIONED GOULASH RECIPE

This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe delivers a comforting blend of ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, seasoned to perfection with traditional spices. It's a one-pot wonder that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners while still delivering the kind of flavor that tastes like it's been simmering all day. Whether you're feeding a family or looking for excellent leftovers, this recipe hits all the right notes of convenience, taste, and satisfaction. Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 6-8 Calories: 385 per serving

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes
  • 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup water if needed
  • Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions

  • Brown the ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks (8-10 minutes).
  • Add diced onions to the beef and cook until translucent (5 minutes).
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute).
  • Add all seasonings (paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
  • Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Add bay leaves.
  • Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add uncooked macaroni to the pot. If mixture seems too thick, add up to 1 cup of water.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
  • Remove bay leaves before serving.
  • Optional: Top with shredded cheese while still hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers with the onions
Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option
Adjust liquid amount based on desired consistency
Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking
Don't skip the Worcestershire sauce – it adds crucial depth of flavor
If freezing, slightly undercook the pasta as it will soften when reheated