There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash—a dish brimming with hearty beef, tender pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. The aroma alone, filled with garlic, onions, and warming spices, makes it feel like home in a bowl.

I first encountered this classic goulash recipe in my grandmother's kitchen, where she stirred her pot with love and patience. It was a budget-friendly meal that could feed a crowd, making it a staple at family gatherings. Now, it's a go-to for busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying without the fuss.

Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with a timeless comfort food classic. This Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate one-pot wonder, bringing simple ingredients together in a way that feels both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have this dish simmering on the stove in under 30 minutes.

It's also budget-friendly. Ground beef, canned tomatoes, and elbow macaroni come together in a way that stretches your dollar without sacrificing flavor.

And let's not forget its family-friendly appeal. Picky eaters? No problem! The combination of tender beef, pasta, and a flavorful sauce makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Finally, it's versatile. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand—swap in turkey for beef, add extra veggies, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that signature taste and texture.

The base of this dish starts with ground beef. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well, though it will alter the richness slightly.

A combination of onions and garlic gives this goulash a deep, savory foundation. Fresh garlic is always best, but in a pinch, garlic powder can do the trick.

For that signature tangy, slightly sweet sauce, you'll need canned tomatoes. I love using a mix of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for the perfect balance. If you like a little extra zing, a splash of tomato paste will deepen the flavor.

Adding elbow macaroni completes the dish. The pasta soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, making every bite hearty and satisfying. Be sure not to overcook it—al dente is the way to go.

A blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper rounds out the dish, infusing it with warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your personal taste.

How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Creating this delicious Old Fashioned Goulash is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon until no pink remains. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.

Next, sauté the onions and garlic in the same pot. The residual beef drippings add extra flavor as the onions soften and the garlic turns fragrant—this step is where the magic starts to happen!

Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Let everything simmer together for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If you like a slightly richer sauce, a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar can enhance the depth.

Now, it's time to add the elbow macaroni. Stir it directly into the pot, ensuring it's fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and let it cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the pasta is cooked, give the goulash a final taste test. Adjust the seasoning as needed and, if you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of indulgence.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? No problem! Old Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

To refrigerate, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For freezing, portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring between each until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is how adaptable it is! Here are a few ways to change it up:

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different take on the dish.
Amp up the veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions, adding both flavor and nutrition.
Make it spicy: If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Try a different pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta work just as well.
Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.

However you make it, this Old Fashioned Goulash is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don't be afraid to put your own spin on this classic dish!