If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, wholesome, and easy-to-make comfort food, look no further. Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a classic dish that has stood the test of time, capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of families worldwide. Originating from Hungary, goulash is a robust, satisfying meal that combines tender meat, flavorful spices, and rich textures. Over the years, it has been adapted into various versions, but its homemade charm remains unshaken.
We will guide you on how to make timeless, Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, for friends, or just to treat yourself, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
What is Goulash?
Goulash (or “gulyás” in Hungarian) is traditionally a meat stew or soup seasoned with paprika and other spices. Initially prepared by Hungarian shepherds, the dish has evolved over centuries. Today’s version is popular in both Europe and America, albeit with regional twists. While Hungarian goulash leans toward a soupier texture, American-style goulash is often heartier, loaded with pasta for added comfort. This recipe follows a classic American approach, using ground beef, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and spices to create the ultimate savory feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these in your pantry.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weekday dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Comfort in Every Bite: A nostalgic dish that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make 6 generous servings of Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon cubes)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for a richer umami flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller chunks as it cooks. Once browned, remove grease (if needed).
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor Base
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a light simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and allow it to cook gently for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
6. Finish and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, give the goulash a final taste test. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or paprika if necessary. For a creamy, cheesy twist, sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Goulash
Making a great goulash is all about balance and little details that take it from good to amazing. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, quality canned tomatoes, and a good brand of smoked paprika. These small choices make a big difference.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes ensures the flavors meld together and develop richness. The longer it cooks (over low heat), the better the taste.
- Cook Pasta to Perfection: Add the pasta toward the end to prevent it from becoming overly soft. Al dente pasta adds the perfect bite to the dish.
- Enhance with Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese (whether cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan) adds a layer of indulgent creaminess.
- Make It Your Own: This recipe is flexible! Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies, or use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
Storing and Reheating
Goulash makes excellent leftovers and can be stored easily for meals throughout the week.
- Refrigerating: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled goulash in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft after thawing, consider slightly undercooking it before freezing.
- Reheating: Warm the goulash over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Goulash
- Choose Quality Meat: Ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (like 80/20) adds extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Paprika: This spice is essential for that authentic old-world flavor. If you can find Hungarian paprika, even better!
- Leftovers Are the Best: This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop in the fridge.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier version!
- Swap the Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can try penne, rigatoni, or even egg noodles.
- Creamy Goulash: Stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what pairs best with old-fashioned goulash? Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a family gathering, here are some perfect side dishes to complement your meal:
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up every drop of that hearty sauce.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of goulash.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted green beans, carrots, or asparagus make a healthy side.
- Mashed Potatoes (for Hungarian-style goulash): If you’re going for the stew-like variation, mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven.
Bringing Comfort to Your Kitchen
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether it’s nostalgic memories of eating a family favorite or the discovery of a new go-to comfort food, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
The combination of tender meat, savory sauce, and warm pasta makes this dish a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike. Whether you’re making it on a chilly evening or simply craving something rich and satisfying, this goulash hits the spot every time.
For more hearty recipes and cooking tips, stay connected with us—and don’t forget to share your culinary creations!
Storage and Reheating
One of the best things about old-fashioned goulash is its ability to store and reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat your goulash for maximum flavor and freshness:
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled goulash in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave a bit of space in the container or bag, as the sauce may expand as it freezes.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: For the best results, reheat the goulash on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a portion of goulash in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splattering, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
- From Frozen: Thaw frozen goulash in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is not only delicious but also provides a wholesome, balanced meal packed with nutrients. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving (approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: ~350-400
- Protein: ~20-25g (depending on the type of ground beef used)
- Carbohydrates: ~35-40g
- Fat: ~15-20g
- Fiber: ~3-5g
- Vitamins and Minerals: This dish contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A (from the tomatoes and paprika), Vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Keep in mind that nutritional values will vary based on portion sizes, ingredient substitutions, and any added toppings like cheese or sour cream.
If you’re watching your calorie or sodium intake, you can opt for leaner ground beef, low-sodium broth, and limit additional salt or cheese. Small adjustments can make the dish even more diet-friendly without sacrificing its rich, comforting flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe is a standout not just for its taste but for its versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a large group, preparing a cozy dinner for the family, or looking for a meal-prep-friendly dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. Its ease of preparation, affordable ingredients, and timeless flavors make it a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From busy weeknights to comforting weekend meals, this goulash earns a well-deserved spot in your recipe rotation.
Proper storage and reheating help maintain the dish’s texture and flavor, ensuring your goulash is just as delightful the second, third, or even fourth time around!
Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe proves that a meal doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With its simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and comforting flavors, it’s a recipe that belongs in everyone’s cooking repertoire. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or planning ahead for leftovers, this warm and hearty dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions, and be sure to make it your own. After all, the best part of cooking is adding your personal touch. Happy cooking!