Old Fashioned Goulash—the classic American-style version with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s nostalgic, hearty, and perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later.
🍲 Old Fashioned Goulash (American Style)
🍽 Serves: 6–8 ⏱ Time: 45 minutes
🧂 Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups beef broth (or water)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions:
Cook pasta:
In a separate pot, boil macaroni just shy of al dente (it will cook more in the sauce). Drain and set aside.
Brown beef and aromatics:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add diced onion and cook 5–7 minutes, until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.
Build the sauce:
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy/Worcestershire sauce, broth, and seasonings (Italian herbs, paprika, salt, pepper). Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes.
Combine with pasta:
Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir well. Simmer on low for another 5–10 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Add cheese (optional):
Stir in shredded cheese or sprinkle it over the top and cover just until melted.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy hot!
🔄 Tips & Variations:
Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the onion.
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Freezes well: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.