Old Fashioned Goulash

Old fashioned goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that reminds me of cozy family dinners. It’s a one-pot wonder packed with beef, pasta, and a rich tomato base, all seasoned to perfection. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor that brings a sense of nostalgia to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, budget-friendly, and feeds a crowd. The ingredients are common pantry staples, and it’s flexible enough to make it just the way I like. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients, and the leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/2 lb macaroni
• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• Garlic salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste
• Hot sauce to taste
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) whole stewed tomatoes, with juices
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• Tomato juice (optional)

Directions

1. I cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, I cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned.
3. I drain the excess grease and season the mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and a few dashes of hot sauce.
4. In a separate bowl, I crush the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher to break them up, then stir them into the beef mixture along with the ketchup.
5. I add the cooked macaroni and stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. I give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If I want it saucier, I pour in a bit of tomato juice.
7. I serve it hot and hearty, straight from the pot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 generous servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 25–30 minutes to cook, so I can have dinner ready in under 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to mix in chopped green bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. I’ve also swapped the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor. If I want a cheesy version, I stir in some shredded cheddar at the end.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm portions on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of tomato juice or water to loosen it up. It reheats beautifully and is perfect for lunches.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, I’ve used elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells—whatever I have on hand works great.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely, I often make it a day early. The flavors deepen overnight and taste even better the next day.

How spicy is it?

It depends on how much hot sauce and chili powder I add. I can easily adjust the heat level to suit my taste.

Can I freeze old fashioned goulash?

Yes, I let it cool completely, then freeze it in portions. It reheats well, though I sometimes add a bit of extra sauce or juice when warming it up.

What can I serve with this dish?

I usually serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Old fashioned goulash is a simple, flavorful recipe I keep coming back to. It’s filling, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With a few easy tweaks, I can make it my own every time I cook it.

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