Name: Old Fashioned Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 2 pounds ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce; 2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Jump to Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is the kind of meal that brings everyone straight to the table. This classic American dish combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melty cheese. If you’re looking for the Best goulash recipe that delivers bold flavor and simple steps, this one checks every box. It’s an easy goulash that comes together in just 45 minutes, making it the perfect 45 minute dinner for busy weeknights. Plus, it delivers everything you want in hearty comfort food without complicated ingredients.

Story

I grew up eating Old Fashioned Goulash on chilly evenings when we needed something filling and satisfying. My family always relied on Old Fashioned Goulash because it used pantry staples and fed a crowd without stress. Over time, I refined this Old Fashioned Goulash recipe to balance rich tomato flavor, perfectly seasoned beef, and tender pasta that holds its shape.

What makes this Old Fashioned Goulash stand out is the combination of juicy ground beef, aromatic garlic, and Italian seasoning simmered in tomato sauce. Then, melted cheddar ties everything together. It’s simple, filling, and reliable. Whenever I need a dependable dinner that feels like home, I turn to Old Fashioned Goulash.

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes
1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for three minutes less than the package directions. This step prevents overcooking later in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic so they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the sauce.

Cooking Instructions

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Break the beef apart with a spoon and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat to keep the sauce rich but not greasy.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly so the flavors combine evenly.

Next, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Fold in the partially cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese.

If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it directly into the oven. Otherwise, move the mixture into a casserole dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the goulash bubbles and the cheese melts completely.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the pasta before baking. Because Old Fashioned Goulash finishes cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking the macaroni keeps the texture ideal. Also, drain the beef well to prevent an oily sauce. Finally, season gradually and taste as you go to maintain balance.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting. Additionally, allow the goulash to rest for five minutes after baking. This short rest helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier. If you prefer extra richness, stir in a small splash of beef broth while simmering the sauce.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Old Fashioned Goulash hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread to round out the meal. Because it’s already packed with protein and pasta, it stands strong as a complete dinner on its own.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave at 80% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round to maintain even heat.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash remains a timeless dinner for good reason. It combines simple ingredients, bold flavor, and comforting texture in one dependable dish. Whether you need a family-friendly meal or a satisfying make-ahead option, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a classic that never goes out of style.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish fully, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Can I substitute different pasta shapes?

Absolutely. While elbow macaroni works best for traditional texture, small shells or rotini also hold the sauce well.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes. Bell peppers or mushrooms blend nicely with the beef and tomato base. Sauté them with the onions for even cooking.