Old-Fashioned Goulash is a simple yet delicious dish that’s been a favorite in many households for generations. This one-pot meal combines ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce flavored with herbs and spices. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this goulash recipe is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

1x (Standard Recipe):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped, white or yellow)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes (not drained)
• 1 pound elbow macaroni

2x (Double Recipe):

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions (chopped, white or yellow)
• 2 green bell peppers (chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes (not drained)
• 2 pounds elbow macaroni

3x (Triple Recipe):

• 3 pounds ground beef
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large onions (chopped, white or yellow)
• 3 green bell peppers (chopped)
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
• 4 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 3 teaspoons dried basil
• 3 teaspoons chopped parsley
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 6 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes (not drained)
• 3 pounds elbow macaroni

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and chopped parsley. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Worcestershire Sauce

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

1. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Once the sauce has finished simmering, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the pot.
2. Stir well to coat the pasta with the sauce, making sure everything is evenly combined.
3. Continue to cook over low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the pot from the heat and let the goulash sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
2. Serve hot with a sprinkle of additional chopped parsley if desired.

Cook’s Notes

• Make-Ahead Tip: This goulash can be made ahead of time and reheated. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Cheese Option: For a cheesy twist, you can stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before serving.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variations

Cheesy Goulash

Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese after adding the macaroni for a cheesy, gooey version of this classic dish.

Spicy Goulash

Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Mexican Goulash

Replace the dried oregano and basil with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add a can of drained black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex twist.

Vegetarian Goulash

Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Yes, you can freeze leftover goulash. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

5. What can I serve with goulash?

Goulash is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or garlic bread.

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this goulash is a delicious and satisfying choice for any occasion.