Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something that feels like home, this goulash hits the spot every single time.

You know you’ve found something magical when your entire family goes quiet at the dinner table—not because there’s nothing to talk about, but because everyone’s too busy devouring what’s on their plate. That’s exactly the kind of reaction this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe gets in our house. It’s a simple, humble dish, but it’s packed with flavor, nostalgia, and warmth.

The first time I made it, I was just trying to clear out the pantry. A little ground beef, a can of tomatoes, some elbow macaroni—nothing fancy. But when my husband said, “This tastes like my mom’s cooking,” I knew it was going in the permanent rotation. Now, it’s our go-to for busy weeknights, cozy Sundays, and even casual get-togethers with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

✅ Fast and easy – Done in under 45 minutes
✅ One-pot wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor
✅ Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day
✅ Comfort food classic – Familiar and soul-soothing
✅ Budget-friendly – Great for feeding the whole family affordably

Ingredients List

Here’s what you need to make a big pot of delicious, stick-to-your-ribs goulash:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Optional Swaps & Add-Ins

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese
Penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the meat and aromatics
Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic once the beef starts to brown. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.

2. Add tomatoes and seasoning
Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Cook the pasta
Boil macaroni in a separate pot until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine pasta and sauce
Stir the cooked pasta into the meat and tomato mixture. Mix well and let it all come together for 3–5 minutes.

5. Optional cheesy topping
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover for 2 minutes to let it melt. Garnish with parsley or green onions.

Make It Your Own

What’s great about this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to give it your own spin:

Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream at the end
Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving
Italian-Inspired: Add basil and oregano, and swap cheddar for mozzarella and Parmesan

It’s the kind of dish that evolves with your tastes, fridge leftovers, and creativity!

Pro Tips & FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days and the flavors actually improve overnight. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

How Long Does Pasta Last in the Fridge?
Cooked pasta typically lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. To keep it fresh longer.

Can I add heat?
Definitely. Try red pepper flakes, cayenne, or even diced jalapeños for a little kick. You can also stir in chipotle powder or spicy tomato sauce for more smoky depth.

What sides go well with it?
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp garden salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables. For drinks, a simple iced tea or lemonade balances the richness beautifully.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight containers. When reheating, add a little broth or water to restore moisture and keep the pasta from getting too soft.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a reminder of simpler times, full bellies, and the joy of a warm kitchen. Every bite tells a story, whether it’s a childhood memory or a new tradition you’re creating right now.

If your family ends up loving this as much as mine does, don’t be surprised if you’re doubling the recipe soon too! Try it out, leave a comment below, and tag us if you share it online. It’s recipes like these that bring people together—and those are the ones worth keeping.

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