There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash to bring back memories of home-cooked family dinners. This hearty dish is packed with tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce that's been simmered to perfection. Every bite delivers comforting flavors, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner.

I first discovered this recipe in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and beef filled the air. She always had a way of turning simple pantry staples into something magical, and this goulash was no exception. Now, I make it for my own family, keeping the tradition alive with every delicious bowl.

Why You'll Love This Old-Fashioned Goulash

Get ready to fall in love with this classic comfort food. Old-Fashioned Goulash is not only delicious but also incredibly practical for busy weeknights.

First off, it’s quick and easy to make. This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

It's also budget-friendly. Using simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes means you can serve up a hearty dinner for the whole family without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s a one-pot wonder. Fewer dishes to clean mean more time spent with your loved ones, enjoying a comforting meal together.

And finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it the perfect go-to dish when your pantry is running low.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Old-Fashioned Goulash lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish so special:

Ground beef is the heart of this recipe. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for goulash, soaking up the rich tomato sauce beautifully. If you don’t have elbow pasta, small shells or rotini make great alternatives.

Canned tomatoes and tomato sauce create the deep, rich base of this dish. I love using a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for the perfect balance of texture and smoothness.

Garlic and onion add depth and fragrance to the sauce. Be sure to sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant before adding the other ingredients.

Lastly, a touch of Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning bring all the flavors together, giving the goulash its signature savory taste.

How To Make This Old-Fashioned Goulash

Making this comforting dish is easier than you think! Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.

Next, stir in your chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step helps to build the rich flavor base for the sauce.

Now, it’s time to add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

While the sauce is simmering, cook your elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and add it to the sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the rich tomato mixture.

Let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving—this allows the pasta to absorb even more of the delicious flavors. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This Old-Fashioned Goulash stores beautifully!

For short-term storage, transfer any leftover goulash to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

If you want to freeze it, allow the goulash to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

For the best texture, avoid freezing cooked pasta separately—always mix it with the sauce before freezing.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Old-Fashioned Goulash is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Looking to make it healthier? Swap out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, and use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

Want a spicier version? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions for an extra kick.

Prefer a cheesier goulash? Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Need a vegetarian option? Skip the meat and add extra beans, mushrooms, or lentils for a hearty plant-based version.

No elbow macaroni? No problem! You can use small shells, rotini, or even penne—just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

No matter how you make it, this Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless, comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors in every bite!