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Old Fashioned Goulash is a simple and satisfying dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings, all cooked in one pot. Also known as “American Goulash,” it’s cozy, kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.
⏱️ Prep Time
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
🧰 Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (optional, for cheese)
🛒 Ingredients (6 servings)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
🧾 Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef: Use lean beef (85–90%) to avoid too much grease.
- Macaroni: Elbow pasta is traditional, but you can use shells or rotini.
- Tomato paste: Adds depth but is optional.
- Cheese: A handful of shredded cheese on top makes it extra comforting.
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the beef
- In a large pot, brown ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink (5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
- Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add liquids and seasonings
- Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste (if using), broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Add macaroni
- Stir in uncooked macaroni.
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Optional: Stir in cheese or sprinkle on top before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (per serving – approx.)
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Varies depending on cheese and beef used.
💡 Tips & Variations
✅ Tips
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of sugar to balance acidity.
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken slightly.
🔁 Variations
- With beans: Add 1 can of drained kidney beans for more protein.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Cheesy bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Turkey version: Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
