There's something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash. With its rich, savory tomato sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, this dish is a nostalgic classic that has stood the test of time. It's hearty, simple, and packed with flavor—just like grandma used to make.

I remember my first taste of goulash as a child at my grandmother’s house. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Every bite was a perfect blend of beefy goodness and tender pasta, making it an instant family favorite. Now, I make this recipe whenever I need a cozy, fuss-free meal that brings back warm memories.
Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash
Get ready to fall in love with this timeless comfort food. Old Fashioned Goulash is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes—delicious, affordable, and incredibly easy to make.
First, it’s quick and easy to prepare. In under 45 minutes, you can have a filling meal on the table with minimal effort. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
It’s also budget-friendly. With just a handful of pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Not to mention, it’s a one-pot wonder. There’s no need to juggle multiple dishes—this recipe lets you cook everything in a single pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while simplifying your kitchen routine.
Finally, it’s a family favorite. Kids and adults alike love the combination of seasoned beef, tangy tomatoes, and soft pasta. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Old Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.
Ground Beef is the heart of this dish. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different.
Elbow Macaroni is the traditional pasta choice. Its small, curved shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite deliciously coated in rich tomato goodness. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, small shells or rotini work as substitutes.
Canned Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce form the flavorful base of the goulash. Using both provides the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, creating a well-rounded sauce. If you like a little more texture, fire-roasted tomatoes add a subtle smokiness.
Garlic and Onion add depth and aroma. Fresh garlic and a diced onion sautéed in olive oil infuse the dish with a rich, savory base that enhances every other ingredient.
Seasonings make all the difference. A blend of paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper gives the goulash its signature warm, savory flavor. For a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added.
How To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash

Making this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a foolproof, one-pot meal.
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the diced onion until it turns soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, then drain any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Mix everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and deepen.
Pour in the beef broth and elbow macaroni, stirring to ensure the pasta is fully submerged. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the delicious flavors.
Finally, remove from heat and let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps thicken the sauce and allows the flavors to meld even further. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
Storage Options
Got leftovers? This Old Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
For refrigeration, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating is simple. Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is its versatility. Here are some ways to switch it up based on your preferences.
For a healthier version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
Make it extra cheesy by stirring in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end. The cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, making it even more comforting.
Want a vegetarian option? Skip the meat and add diced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers instead. A can of drained lentils or black beans also makes a great protein-packed addition.
Spice lovers can turn up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. A splash of hot sauce before serving also adds a nice kick.
No elbow macaroni? No problem! Swap in any short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is cooked to perfection.
No matter how you customize it, this Old Fashioned Goulash is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Give it a try and make it your own!
PrintOld Fashioned Goulash Recipe
This old-fashioned goulash recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and seasonings. Packed with rich flavors, it's an easy, budget-friendly dish perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add uncooked macaroni, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
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