Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash

This old fashioned goulash is pure comfort in a bowl. It combines hearty ground beef with tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheddar cheese for a cozy, filling meal that comes together in less than an hour. This recipe brings back memories of family dinners and is the perfect go to for a satisfying weeknight supper.

I first made this on a chilly evening when I needed something warm and familiar. Now it’s a family favorite that always brings a smile and full bellies around the table.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: classic choice for texture and shape you can swap other pasta but this is traditional
• Ground beef: provides rich flavor and hearty protein use fresh, lean ground beef for the best results
• Onion: yellow onion adds sweetness and depth red or white onions work if that’s what you have
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic for fragrant, savory flavor avoid pre minced if possible
• Worcestershire sauce: boosts umami and adds a tangy depth
• Canned tomato sauce: smooth base for the sauce choose a good quality brand
• Canned petite diced tomatoes: adds texture and brightness look for tomatoes packed without extra additives
• Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and marjoram fresh herbs can be used if you prefer
• Salt: enhances all flavors
• Black pepper: freshly ground for the best taste
• Cheddar cheese: shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully, adding richness and a creamy texture

Instructions

Prep and Preheat:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready when you finish preparing the goulash.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for three minutes less than the package instructions so it finishes cooking in the oven without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Brown the Beef and Onions:

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions. Break the beef into small pieces with your spoon or spatula. Cook for six to seven minutes until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet for a leaner dish.

Add the Garlic:

Lower the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but does not brown. This releases the garlic’s flavor evenly throughout the dish.

Combine Sauce Ingredients:

Add Worcestershire sauce, canned tomato sauce, and petite diced tomatoes directly into the skillet. Stir everything together well so the sauce gets evenly distributed.

Season the Sauce:

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly and then taste the sauce. Adjust the seasonings to your liking by adding a bit more salt or herbs if you want a stronger flavor.

Mix in Pasta and Cheese:

Turn off the stove. Add the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and the cheese starts to melt into the warm sauce.

Bake the Goulash:

If your skillet is oven safe, place it directly in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. If not, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish and bake it there. Remove carefully and let it cool slightly before serving.

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I love the way the Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness. When I was growing up, my mom would serve this with buttered saltine crackers on the side. It’s a tradition I still follow because it adds that salty crunch and makes dinner feel extra cozy.

Storage Tips

Cool leftover goulash completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave at 80 percent power in 30 second increments to avoid drying it out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have elbow macaroni, rigatoni, penne, or small shells are great options. For beef, ground turkey or chicken can lighten the dish without losing flavor. If you lack Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce with a little vinegar can mimic the umami and tang.

Serving Suggestions

This classic American dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. Buttered saltine crackers are my favorite nostalgic touch. Fresh garlic knots or warm cornbread also complement the hearty goulash texture and flavors.

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This comforting goulash is an easy weeknight winner that doubles well for leftovers. It’s simple to adapt and always satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Elbow macaroni is traditional for this dish, providing the perfect shape and texture to hold the rich sauce.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

You can use ground turkey or pork, but the classic flavor depends on the beef's richness and texture.

→ How should I season the sauce for best flavor?

Use Italian seasoning, salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to enhance the savory, hearty profile.

→ Is it necessary to bake the dish after mixing ingredients?

Baking melts the cheddar cheese and allows flavors to meld, creating a bubbly, satisfying finish, but it can be served immediately if preferred.

→ How can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.