There’s a certain magic in a dish that can transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen with just one bite. Old-Fashioned Goulash, often called American Goulash to distinguish it from its Hungarian cousin, is that kind of dish. It’s a hearty, one-pot wonder that combines savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce into a meal that is both incredibly satisfying and beautifully simple. More than just dinner, it’s a hug in a bowl a budget-friendly, family-friendly recipe that has stood the test of time. In this detailed, step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to create the perfect pot of Old-Fashioned Goulash, packed with tips to ensure it becomes a staple in your own recipe rotation.
What You’ll Need: Old-Fashioned Goulash Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s your shopping list:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (key for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups (about 8 oz) dry elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven (6-quart or larger)
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple, numbered steps for a foolproof cooking experience.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with your wooden spoon and cook until it is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. For the best flavor and texture, avoid overcrowding if necessary, brown the beef in two batches. Once browned, carefully drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
This is where the magic happens. To the pot with the beef and vegetables, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
Now, add all your seasonings: the bay leaves, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, making sure the spices are well incorporated.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
After the sauce has simmered, it’s time to add the pasta. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Re-cover the pot and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the delicious flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Crucial step: Fish out and discard the two bay leaves. Let the goulash sit, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken up to the perfect consistency.
Serve hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Don’t Skip the Smoked Paprika: This is the secret ingredient that gives American Goulash its distinctive, deep flavor. Sweet paprika can be used in a pinch, but smoked adds an irreplaceable warmth.
- Broth is Better: Using beef broth instead of water adds a tremendous amount of savory depth. Low-sodium is recommended so you can control the salt level.
- Pasta Pointers: Use a standard elbow macaroni for the classic look and texture. Avoid overcooking; the pasta should be al dente (tender but with a slight bite) when you turn off the heat, as it will continue to soften in the residual heat.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a dash of soy sauce for umami, or stir in some sweet corn or kidney beans for extra heartiness.
- Storage & Reheating: This goulash tastes even better the next day! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comfort Meal
Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome cooking. It requires no fancy techniques or expensive ingredients, yet it delivers a meal that is unanimously loved. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish. We encourage you to put on your apron, grab your Dutch oven, and experience the joy of making this classic comfort food. Don’t forget to share your creation and tag us we love seeing your culinary adventures! Once you try this hearty, flavorful goulash, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your family’s dinner lineup.
