Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

Name: Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb macaroni; 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste; 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained; 2 tablespoons ketchup; Tomato juice as needed

Goulash is a hearty, flavorful, and nostalgic dish that many grew up enjoying. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal because it’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and can feed a family with ease. This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe combines tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato base for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish that can be made in advance, this goulash is an excellent choice.

What is Old Fashioned Goulash?

Old fashioned goulash, also known as “American Goulash” or “Slumgullion,” is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to prepare. Unlike the traditional Hungarian version that includes paprika and a mixture of meats, this American-style goulash consists of ground beef, macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s one of those dishes that are not only delicious but also allows for a lot of customization depending on your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash

This recipe uses simple pantry staples, which makes it both easy to whip up on busy nights and accessible for most home cooks. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/2 lb macaroni – The base of this dish, cooked until al dente.
1 1/2 lbs ground beef – Adds a savory, meaty element.
1 large onion, diced – Brings flavor and texture to the dish.

Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce – Season to taste for a flavorful kick.
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained – The juicy tomato base for the goulash.
2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds a slight sweetness and enhances the tomato flavor.

Tomato juice as needed – Optional, but can be added to adjust the consistency.

Instructions to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by cooking your macaroni according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. This ensures the pasta remains firm and absorbs the flavors from the sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions

While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook them together until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

Once the beef and onions are cooked, season the mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste. This step allows you to adjust the spice level to your preference.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a separate bowl, use a potato masher to crush the stewed tomatoes slightly. Add the tomatoes and ketchup to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine the Macaroni and Beef

Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If you prefer your goulash to have more sauce, add some tomato juice at this point to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce depending on your flavor preferences.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined, serve the goulash warm. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Leftovers and Reheating Tips

Goulash makes great leftovers! However, the macaroni will continue to absorb liquid as it sits in the fridge. When reheating, you can add a bit of tomato juice or water to bring back some of the sauciness.

Notes

Customization Options: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to make the dish heartier. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Freezing: Goulash freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water or tomato juice to restore moisture.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Category: Main Course
Method: Stove-top
Cuisine: American

Diet: Meat-based

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 325 kcal
Protein: 20g

Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g

Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 500mg
Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 6g

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash

This goulash recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet quick to make. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s full of flavor, with just the right balance of seasoned beef, tangy tomatoes, and tender pasta. It’s also a family favorite, great for picky eaters, and easily adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re making a big batch for a party or freezing some for later, this recipe has all the nostalgia and deliciousness you want in a classic dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes, this goulash is great for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a little tomato juice or water to prevent it from drying out.

2. Can I freeze goulash?

Absolutely! Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat by adding a bit of water or tomato juice to refresh the sauce.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. The cooking instructions remain the same.

4. What can I serve with Old Fashioned Goulash?

Goulash pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

5. How do I prevent the goulash from drying out?

To keep the goulash moist, make sure to add tomato juice if you notice it’s getting too thick or dry, especially when reheating leftovers.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Old Fashioned Goulash recipe with your family and friends!