If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is just the ticket. It’s a hearty, comforting stew that wraps tender ground beef in a rich, tomatoey sauce with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all brought together by a dazzling mix of seasonings and melty cheeses. This dish has stood the test of time for good reason — it’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with nostalgia. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this classic old-fashioned goulash will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients together is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating the delicious layers of flavor this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is known for. From the savory ground meat to the comforting cheeses and seasonings, every item contributes to the dish’s hearty, satisfying character.
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey: The star protein that gives the goulash its meaty, rich base.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a wonderful aromatic depth and subtle heat.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and texture as it softens during cooking.
- 2 ½ cups water: Helps create the perfect saucy consistency without watering down the flavors.
- ½ cup beef broth: Intensifies the savory beefy taste for extra richness.
- ⅓ cup olive oil: Used for sautéing, offering a delicate fruity note and aiding in flavor release.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce: Lays down the thick, velvety tomato foundation.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes: Brings freshness and a chunkier texture to the mix.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning: Adds a smoky, savory punch that rounds out the flavors.
- 3 bay leaves: Subtle earthy notes that infuse during simmering.
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ½ tablespoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of background spice.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The classic pasta choice—small, tender, and perfect for soaking up sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for that gooey, inviting finish.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Stirred in to add sharpness and creamy texture.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until it’s nicely browned and halfway cooked through. This step locks in savory flavor and creates a hearty foundation. Once browned, set it aside so you can build flavor with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until soft, fragrant, and golden. These aromatics are key—they’ll fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent and layer subtle sweetness into your goulash.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked meat to your pan. Pour in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. These liquids meld together to create the rich, flavorful sauce the noodles will cook in.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Simmer
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so that all those beautiful spices get evenly distributed. Cover your pan and let it simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering stage is where the flavors truly marry and deepen.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
After simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pan again and gently simmer for 30 more minutes, or until the pasta becomes tender and has soaked up the rich sauce. This is where that Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe comes alive—the pasta absorbs all that hearty goodness.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Remove the bay leaves to avoid any bitter bites. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the mix, enriching the goulash with creamy, sharp goodness. Just before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella across the top and let it melt slightly. That final cheesy layer is pure comfort!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the piping hot goulash into bowls and get ready to dig into this timeless classic that’s both filling and full of flavor. It’s a meal that’s easy to love and hard to forget.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe even more special, consider a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil on top. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and brightness that contrast beautifully with the rich tomato base. A little drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice finishing touch if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
While this goulash is hearty enough on its own, pairing it with a crisp garden salad or buttery garlic bread creates a perfect balance. The freshness of a salad cuts through the richness of the goulash, while warm bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your goulash stuffed inside hollowed-out bell peppers or even atop a baked potato. Another creative idea is to bake the goulash in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy crust that will impress your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. When you reheat it, the flavors will be just as comforting as on day one.
Freezing
If you want to make this meal in advance, goulash freezes very well. Cool it completely, place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and store for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your goulash gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly without drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway through to keep things deliciously saucy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to brown it well to develop that great savory base.
Is it necessary to add both tomato sauce and diced tomatoes?
Yes, because the tomato sauce adds a smooth, thick base while the diced tomatoes bring fresh, chunky texture. Together, they create a lovely balance that makes this goulash so hearty and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You sure can! Simply swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like heat, add a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings or top with hot sauce when serving. It’s an easy way to add a kick without overwhelming the comforting flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30-40 minutes so it doesn’t overcook. This makes for a hands-off, fuss-free dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is truly a kitchen classic that deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and satisfies your hunger with its rich flavors and comforting textures. So why not give it a try? Whip it up for your next family gathering or any time you want a delicious meal that feels like home. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef or turkey, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce infused with Italian and adobo seasonings. Slow simmered to meld flavors, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a satisfying, cheesy finish, it’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 ½ cups water
- ½ cup beef broth
- â…“ cup olive oil
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until it is halfway cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add olive oil if necessary. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Meat and Liquids: Return the browned meat to the skillet with the aromatics. Stir in water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
- Add Seasonings: Add Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to distribute the flavors.
- Simmer the Sauce: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover again, and continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce flavors.
- Remove Bay Leaves: Carefully remove the bay leaves from the skillet and discard.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until thoroughly melted and incorporated into the mixture.
- Top with Mozzarella: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the goulash and allow it to melt slightly with the residual heat.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm, cheesy goulash into bowls and serve immediately for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef.
- You can adjust the seasoning quantities to your preference, especially the adobo seasoning for spiciness.
- If the mixture becomes too thick while simmering, add a little more water or beef broth to maintain desired consistency.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent macaroni from sticking to the skillet bottom.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
