There's something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash. The rich, tomato-based sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a one-pot meal that warms the soul. Whether it's a chilly winter night or a busy weekday evening, this dish never fails to bring the family together around the dinner table.

I first learned to make this goulash from my grandmother, who would whip up a batch whenever we visited. The aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and spices filled the kitchen, making our mouths water long before dinner was served. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and now, I’m excited to share it with you!
Why You'll Love This Old-Fashioned Goulash
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless classic that checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal.
First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a single pot, you can have dinner on the table in under 45 minutes. That means less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.
It’s also budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, and canned tomatoes, this dish delivers big flavor without breaking the bank. Perfect for feeding a hungry family on a dime!
One of the best things about goulash is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences—whether that means adding extra veggies, switching up the protein, or making it spicier with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Lastly, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Goulash tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for leftovers or batch cooking. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Old-Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple, hearty ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
Ground beef is the heart of this dish, providing richness and a satisfying texture. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta choice for goulash. It holds up well in the sauce and absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks. If you prefer, you can substitute it with shells or rotini.
Canned tomatoes and tomato sauce give goulash its signature tangy and savory base. I like using crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture, but diced tomatoes add a chunkier consistency if you enjoy a bit more bite.
Garlic and onions provide depth and a wonderful aroma to the dish. Sautéing them in the beef drippings ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
You’ll also need beef broth to create a rich, flavorful sauce that ties everything together. If you prefer a slightly milder taste, you can use water or chicken broth instead.
How To Make This Old-Fashioned Goulash

Making this Old-Fashioned Goulash is a breeze, and the best part? It all comes together in one pot for easy cleanup!
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Next, toss in your diced onions and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it!
Once the onions are tender, pour in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Now it’s time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir it in and cover the pot, letting the pasta cook right in the sauce. This method ensures every bite is infused with that delicious, savory goodness.
After about 15 minutes, check the pasta for doneness. If it’s cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat. Give everything a final stir, and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for that classic goulash flavor.
Storage Options
This Old-Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prep. Simply transfer any extra goulash to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each burst.
Variations and Substitutions
This goulash recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own with these easy swaps and additions.
For a leaner option, you can swap ground turkey or ground chicken in place of beef. Both work wonderfully and lighten up the dish while maintaining a rich flavor.
Want to sneak in more veggies? Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. These add extra nutrients and a pop of color to the dish.
If you love spice, throw in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. A little heat elevates the flavors and adds a nice kick.
For a cheesier version, sprinkle in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving. The melted cheese makes the dish even more irresistible!
No elbow macaroni on hand? Feel free to use rotini, penne, or any other short pasta that holds sauce well.
However you choose to make it, this Old-Fashioned Goulash is sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, grab a big pot, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like home!
PrintOld Fashioned Goulash Recipe
This old-fashioned goulash recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce. Packed with rich flavors, this easy homemade goulash is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for another 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, and cook until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
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