Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish featuring ground meat, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with melty cheese. This one-pot meal is packed with flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic comfort food dinner or an easy weeknight meal, this classic recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup and minimal dishes
- Comforting & Hearty – A satisfying, cheesy pasta dish for the whole family
- Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry staples
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients or add veggies for variety
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Goulash:
- ground beef or turkey
- minced garlic
- yellow onion, diced
- water
- beef broth
- olive oil
- tomato sauce
- diced tomatoes
- Italian seasoning
- adobo seasoning
- bay leaves
- seasoned salt
- black pepper
- elbow macaroni, uncooked
For the Topping:
- shredded mozzarella cheese
- shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Cook the Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned and half cooked. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the meat to the pan and add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
Season the Goulash:
- Add Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the flavors.
Simmer the Mixture:
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Elbow Macaroni:
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Finish the Dish:
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Just before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the goulash and allow it to melt slightly.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Variations
- Make it Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick.
- Veggie-Packed – Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Low-Carb Option – Swap macaroni for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
- Different Cheese – Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – Freeze cooled goulash in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
What is the difference between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?
American Goulash is a pasta-based dish with ground beef and a tomato sauce, while Hungarian Goulash is a stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and a broth-based sauce.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Rotini, shells, or penne can work, though cooking times may vary.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except pasta and cheese. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use about 4 cups of diced fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Simmer on low heat and avoid overcooking. You can also cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.
What meat works best for goulash?
Ground beef is classic, but ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
What can I serve with goulash?
It pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger pot and adjust seasonings to taste.
Can I cook this ahead of time?
Yes! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this easy one-pot meal is sure to become a favorite. Try it with different variations, and enjoy this simple, satisfying classic!
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring savory ground meat, tender macaroni, and melty cheese, all simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This classic goulash is perfect for family dinners and meal prep!
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 ½ cups water
- ½ cup beef broth
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned and halfway cooked. Set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add olive oil if needed.
- Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3️⃣ Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked meat to the pan.
- Stir in water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
4️⃣ Season the Goulash:
- Add Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5️⃣ Simmer the Mixture:
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6️⃣ Add the Elbow Macaroni:
- Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
7️⃣ Finish the Dish:
- Remove bay leaves.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Just before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the goulash and allow it to melt slightly.
8️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the goulash into bowls and enjoy this warm and satisfying dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Hungarian-Inspired