Make Simple Old Fashioned Goulash Comfort Food

Classic Old Fashioned Goulash Explained

Classic old fashioned goulash is a beloved, nostalgic dish, offering a taste of simple comfort. This Americanized version, distinct from its Hungarian origins, features ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, often finished with cheese. It’s a true one-pot goulash dinner, celebrated for its straightforward preparation and universally appealing taste. This hearty comfort food meal remains a staple in family kitchens, providing substantial satisfaction without complex techniques.

Total time and servings

This classic old fashioned goulash recipe is remarkably efficient. You can typically prepare and serve this delicious meal in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Active cooking takes 10-15 minutes, followed by 20-25 minutes of simmering for flavors to meld. A standard batch yields 6-8 generous portions, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or providing convenient leftovers. Its ability to satisfy multiple appetites with minimal effort reinforces its status as a go-to family friendly goulash option.

What makes it comfort food?

The essence of classic old fashioned goulash as a comfort food stems from its warm, hearty ingredients that provide deep satiety. The blend of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, savory tomato sauce creates a familiar and immensely enjoyable flavor profile. Its simple preparation, with wholesome ingredients coming together easily, adds to its comforting appeal. Served hot from one pot, it fosters a sense of togetherness and warmth, much like a creamy baked mac and cheese. This makes it a go-to choice for any occasion requiring a truly comforting and easy weeknight goulash.

Why Make This Comfort Food?

Beyond its delicious taste, this hearty comfort food meal offers practical benefits that make it a favorite for countless households. The appeal of a classic old fashioned goulash recipe extends to its versatility and ease, positioning it as an ideal solution for a variety of mealtime challenges. Whether you’re juggling a tight schedule or planning a casual get-together, this simple goulash delivers without compromise. It’s a reliable choice that consistently brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, making it much more than just a meal; it’s a dependable culinary friend.

Perfect for busy weeknights

For individuals and families navigating demanding schedules, the easy weeknight goulash is a lifesaver. Its relatively short preparation and cook time mean you can have a wholesome, homemade meal on the table in under an hour. There’s no need for elaborate techniques or exotic ingredients; just straightforward steps that yield impressive results. This allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying moments with loved ones. It is a fantastic alternative to takeout, offering a healthier, more budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or satiety. It truly embodies the convenience many seek in their dinner routines.

Feeds a hungry crowd

The beauty of this ground beef macaroni goulash also lies in its ability to generously feed a hungry crowd. A single batch can easily serve six to eight people, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you just want to ensure plenty of leftovers. The ingredients are economical and readily available, allowing you to scale the recipe up without breaking the bank. Its substantial nature, combining meat, pasta, and a rich sauce, ensures that everyone leaves the table feeling satisfied and full. This makes it a reliable recipe for hosts and busy parents alike, providing a delicious and fulfilling meal for many with minimal fuss. For more ideas to feed a crowd, consider recipes like easy honey garlic chicken or exploring other main course recipes.

Gather Your Simple Goulash Ingredients

Creating a delicious classic old fashioned goulash recipe starts with assembling the right components. Fortunately, this hearty comfort food meal relies on simple goulash ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. The beauty of this dish is its accessibility; you don’t need a specialty shop to find what you need. Focusing on fresh, quality items for your produce and reliable pantry staples ensures the best flavor and texture in your finished one pot goulash dinner. A quick check of your fridge and cabinets before heading to the store will make your cooking process smooth and efficient, setting you up for success with this easy weeknight goulash.

Essential pantry items

Your pantry will be the backbone of your savory tomato sauce goulash. Key staples include:

• Ground Meat: Lean ground beef is traditional, providing a rich base. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice, it holds the sauce wonderfully.
• Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, or tomato sauce form the core of the rich base.
• Broth: Beef or vegetable broth adds depth and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning are crucial for flavor.
• Bay Leaves: These contribute a subtle, aromatic depth during simmering.

These items, when combined, create the robust flavor profile that makes cheesy beef goulash so satisfying. Ensuring you have these on hand simplifies the cooking process immensely.

Fresh produce needed

While much of the flavor comes from pantry staples, a few fresh ingredients elevate your classic old fashioned goulash.

• Onions: A medium yellow onion, finely chopped, forms the aromatic base for the sauce. It softens and sweetens as it cooks.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an indispensable pungent depth. Never underestimate the power of fresh garlic in a savory dish.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped just before serving, provides a vibrant color and a fresh herbaceous note.

These fresh components contribute significantly to the overall aroma and taste, transforming simple goulash ingredients into a truly memorable meal. Pairing these with your other items ensures a balanced and flavorful one pot goulash dinner.

Browning the Ground Meat

The foundation of a flavorful classic old fashioned goulash recipe begins with properly browning your ground meat. This crucial step not only cooks the meat but also develops deep, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction, which is essential for a rich ground beef macaroni goulash. Starting with a hot pan ensures a good sear and prevents the meat from steaming. Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, which will be used for the entire one pot goulash dinner, making cleanup a breeze. Achieving that perfect brown crust on the meat sets the stage for a truly robust and delicious meal, making it worth the extra attention to detail.

How to break up meat

Once you add your ground beef to the hot pan, use a sturdy spoon or spatula to break it up into small, even pieces. Initially, you might see larger clumps, but continuous stirring and chopping will help achieve a consistent texture. The goal is to avoid large chunks so that the meat integrates smoothly into the sauce and macaroni, ensuring every bite of your easy weeknight goulash is perfectly balanced. Continue to stir and break up the meat until it’s evenly browned on all sides, with no pink remaining. This careful attention to breaking up the meat contributes significantly to the overall texture and presentation of your hearty comfort food meal.

Drain excess fat

After your ground meat is thoroughly browned, it’s important to drain any excess fat. While some fat adds flavor, too much can make your savory tomato sauce goulash greasy. Carefully tilt the pot and use a spoon to scoop out the rendered fat, or, if using a colander, transfer the meat to drain, then return it to the pot. This step is especially important if you’re using higher-fat ground beef. Draining the fat helps maintain a cleaner, more vibrant flavor profile for your cheesy beef goulash and contributes to a healthier finish. A well-drained pot ensures that your subsequent ingredients, like onions and garlic, can sauté effectively in a minimal amount of remaining fat.

Sautéing Onions and Garlic

With the ground meat perfectly browned and the excess fat drained, the next critical step in preparing your classic old fashioned goulash is to build the aromatic base. This involves sautéing the onions and garlic, which are the unsung heroes providing deep, foundational flavor to your savory tomato sauce goulash. The sweetness of caramelized onions and the pungent aroma of garlic create a complex background that truly elevates the entire dish. This is where simple goulash ingredients start to transform, layering flavors that will simmer together beautifully. Don’t rush this step, as it’s vital for a rich and satisfying easy weeknight goulash.

Cook until translucent

Add the chopped onions to the pot with the residual fat from the browned meat (add a teaspoon of oil if the pot is too dry). Sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The key is to cook the onions until they become soft and translucent, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This process allows their natural sugars to caramelize slightly, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish. Once the onions are ready, add the minced garlic. Garlic burns quickly, so stir it for just about 30-60 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Overcooking garlic can lead to a bitter taste, which you want to avoid in your hearty comfort food meal. This aromatic foundation is crucial for a truly delicious ground beef macaroni goulash.

Make Your Rich Tomato Base

The tomato base is the heart of your classic old fashioned goulash, lending it its signature tangy and savory profile. After sautéing your aromatics, you’ll introduce the liquids and tomatoes that will form the lush sauce, bringing all the simple goulash ingredients together. This step is about balancing acidity and richness to create a perfect backdrop for the ground beef and macaroni. A well-constructed tomato base is essential for a deeply satisfying one pot goulash dinner, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with flavor and warmth. It’s the foundation upon which your cheesy beef goulash truly shines.

Water and broth balance

Achieving the ideal consistency and flavor for your savory tomato sauce goulash involves a careful balance of water and broth. Start by adding beef broth to the pot, which instantly infuses the sauce with a rich, umami depth. Following this, add an appropriate amount of water. While broth provides concentrated flavor, water helps to thin the sauce to the desired consistency without making it overly heavy or salty. The combination allows the other ingredients, especially the canned tomatoes and seasonings, to shine without being overshadowed. This balance is critical for ensuring your easy weeknight goulash has a perfect mouthfeel and robust taste. For another delicious ground meat recipe, try ground turkey and peppers.

Canned tomatoes for flavor

Canned tomatoes are the star of the show in the tomato base, providing both body and an intense, vibrant flavor. For a classic old fashioned goulash, diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes are excellent choices, offering texture and a natural sweetness. Tomato sauce can also be used for a smoother consistency. Stir the canned tomatoes into the pot, breaking up any large pieces. The quality of your canned tomatoes directly impacts the final taste of your hearty comfort food meal, so opt for a good brand. Simmering these tomatoes allows their flavors to concentrate and deepen, creating a rich and robust sauce that coats every piece of ground beef macaroni goulash beautifully. You can learn more about tomatoes on Wikipedia to appreciate their versatility.

Seasoning the Comfort Food Goulash

Proper seasoning is paramount to transforming your simple goulash ingredients into a truly memorable classic old fashioned goulash. It’s where the magic happens, elevating the hearty comfort food meal from merely good to absolutely delicious. The right blend of herbs and spices will complement the rich tomato and beef flavors, creating a savory profile that is both complex and deeply satisfying. Don’t be shy about tasting and adjusting as you go; personal preference plays a big role in achieving your ideal flavor. This careful attention to seasoning ensures your easy weeknight goulash is always a hit at the dinner table.

Key herbs and spices

For a traditional savory tomato sauce goulash, several key herbs and spices are non-negotiable.

• Salt and Black Pepper: These are your foundation, bringing out all the other flavors. Season generously, tasting periodically.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, it provides a classic Mediterranean warmth.
• Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These amplify the fresh onion and garlic, adding an extra layer of savory depth.
• Smoked Paprika (optional): A touch of smoked paprika can add a beautiful smoky complexity and a hint of color to your ground beef macaroni goulash.

These seasonings, combined, create the quintessential flavor profile of a classic American goulash, ensuring a balanced and appetizing taste.

Bay leaves for depth

While often overlooked, bay leaves are a secret weapon for adding subtle yet significant depth to your one pot goulash dinner. Adding one or two bay leaves to the simmering sauce allows their earthy, slightly minty, and peppery notes to slowly infuse into the dish. They don’t overpower the other flavors but instead provide a background complexity that makes the cheesy beef goulash taste more developed and richer. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving, as they are not meant to be eaten. Their presence during the cooking process is crucial for achieving that authentic, slow-cooked flavor even in an easy weeknight goulash.

Cooking the Macaroni Perfectly

The macaroni is an integral component of your classic old fashioned goulash, so cooking it to perfection is essential for the overall texture and enjoyment of this hearty comfort food meal. While some recipes call for cooking pasta separately, an authentic one pot goulash dinner typically involves cooking the macaroni directly in the sauce. This method allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors of the savory tomato sauce goulash, resulting in a more cohesive and deeply flavored dish. Achieving the right texture for your ground beef macaroni goulash is key; no one wants mushy or overly firm pasta.

Stir often to prevent sticking

When cooking macaroni directly in the sauce, constant attention is required to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot or clumping together. After adding the dry elbow macaroni to the simmering tomato base, give it a good stir to separate the pieces. Continue to stir frequently, especially during the initial few minutes of cooking. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the pasta from settling and adhering to the pot. Regular stirring guarantees that each piece of macaroni cooks uniformly, integrating beautifully into your easy weeknight goulash without becoming a solid mass. This small effort makes a significant difference in the final texture of your cheesy beef goulash.

Aim for al dente pasta

The ideal texture for the macaroni in your classic old fashioned goulash is “al dente,” meaning it’s firm to the bite but still tender. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, detracting from the overall appeal of the dish. Start checking the macaroni for doneness a couple of minutes before the package directions suggest, or around 10-12 minutes of simmering in the sauce. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid even after you remove the pot from the heat, so slightly undercooking it is better than overcooking. Al dente macaroni provides a pleasing textural contrast to the soft ground beef and rich sauce, making every forkful of this family friendly goulash a delight. You can explore more about macaroni on Wikipedia.

Adding the Cheesy Finish

No classic old fashioned goulash is complete without a generous, melty cheesy finish. This final step transforms a hearty ground beef macaroni goulash into an even more indulgent and comforting experience, adding a layer of creamy richness that perfectly complements the savory tomato sauce. The bubbling, golden cheese topping is often the highlight for many, promising a delicious bite with every scoop. It’s the perfect end to your one pot goulash dinner, bringing together all the flavors with a delightful gooey texture that appeals to everyone. This cheesy beef goulash truly lives up to its comfort food status.

Mozzarella and cheddar blend

For the ultimate cheesy finish on your easy weeknight goulash, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses is highly recommended.

• Mozzarella: Known for its incredible melt and stretch, mozzarella creates that satisfying gooey texture.
• Cheddar: Adds a sharp, savory flavor and a beautiful golden crust when melted.

Using pre-shredded cheese can save time, but shredding your own from a block often results in a smoother melt and richer flavor due to fewer anti-caking agents. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the hot goulash once the macaroni is cooked and the sauce has thickened. This combination ensures both visual appeal and a depth of flavor that enhances the entire family friendly goulash experience.

Stir until cheese melts

Once the cheese is sprinkled over the hot ground beef macaroni goulash, you have a couple of options. For a truly integrated cheesy beef goulash, gently stir the cheese directly into the hot goulash. The residual heat will quickly melt the cheese, creating a creamy, cohesive sauce that coats every piece of macaroni and meat. If you prefer a distinct cheesy topping, you can cover the pot for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt from the steam, or even place the pot under a broiler for a few minutes to achieve a golden-brown, bubbly crust (watch carefully to prevent burning). Either method results in a decadent finish, ensuring your savory tomato sauce goulash is rich and utterly irresistible.

Serving Your Hearty Goulash

After all your efforts in creating a delicious classic old fashioned goulash, the final presentation is key to enjoying this hearty comfort food meal to its fullest. Serving it hot, directly from the pot, emphasizes its one pot goulash dinner appeal and rustic charm. This is when the aromas truly fill your kitchen, promising a satisfying and flavorful experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, a well-served bowl of ground beef macaroni goulash is always a welcome sight. It’s a moment to savor the fruits of your labor and appreciate the simple pleasures of a homemade meal.

Garnish with fresh herbs

While optional, garnishing your savory tomato sauce goulash with fresh herbs adds a touch of brightness and visual appeal. Freshly chopped parsley or chives scattered over the top just before serving provides a vibrant contrast to the rich red sauce and melted cheese. Beyond aesthetics, these herbs offer a subtle, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheesy beef goulash, offering a refreshing counterpoint. A sprinkle of fresh basil can also be a wonderful addition. This simple step elevates the presentation, making your easy weeknight goulash look as good as it tastes, truly transforming it into a family friendly goulash feast.

Sides like bread or salad

To round out your classic old fashioned goulash into a complete meal, consider pairing it with simple yet complementary sides.

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich goulash, adding a welcome element of freshness and balance.

These sides not only complement the flavors but also enhance the overall dining experience, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. You could also try a light soup, perhaps a homemade wonton soup, as a starter.

Easy Goulash Recipe Variations

One fantastic aspect of a classic old fashioned goulash recipe is its inherent flexibility. Once you’ve mastered the basic hearty comfort food meal, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes, use up ingredients on hand, or simply try something new. These simple goulash ingredients lend themselves beautifully to customization, allowing you to create unique twists. Experimenting with additions keeps this easy weeknight goulash fresh and exciting, ensuring it remains a staple in your family friendly goulash rotation. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this one pot goulash dinner truly your own.

Add extra vegetables

Boost the nutritional value and texture of your ground beef macaroni goulash with added vegetables. Consider stirring in:

• Diced Carrots or Celery: Add alongside onions for a classic mirepoix base and extra sweetness.
• Bell Peppers: Red, green, or yellow peppers bring crunch and vibrant color. Add with onions or during simmering.
• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth to your savory tomato sauce goulash.
• Spinach: Wilt in fresh spinach during the last few minutes for a healthy boost.

These additions enhance flavor and make your cheesy beef goulash even more satisfying and well-rounded, great for sneaking in extra nutrients.

Try different pasta shapes

While elbow macaroni is traditional for classic old fashioned goulash, don’t hesitate to experiment with other pasta shapes to change the texture and appeal.

• Ditalini: Small tube pasta, similar to macaroni.
• Small Shells: These cups capture the sauce beautifully.
• Penne or Ziti: For a slightly larger, more substantial bite.
• Rotini: Spirals are excellent for holding onto the rich sauce.

Ensure cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta’s instructions. This simple change can give your family friendly goulash a fresh new feel.

Make it spicier

If you prefer your hearty comfort food meal with a kick, it’s simple to make your one pot goulash dinner spicier.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch or two when sautéing onions and garlic for even heat.
• Cayenne Pepper: Stir in a small amount with other seasonings for intense spice.
• Diced Jalapeños: Freshly diced jalapeños, added with onions, provide vibrant heat.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite at the end or serve on the side for individual customization.

These additions transform your ground beef macaroni goulash into a fiery and exciting version. For another spicy meal, check out fiery dragon chicken.

Storing and Reheating Goulash

One of the best qualities of a classic old fashioned goulash recipe is how well it holds up, making it an excellent meal prep option or simply great for enjoying leftovers. A big batch of this hearty comfort food meal means you can have easy weeknight dinners ready to go throughout the week, or even stock your freezer for future busy evenings. Proper storage ensures your ground beef macaroni goulash remains delicious and safe to eat, maintaining its savory tomato sauce goulash flavor and cheesy texture. This makes your one pot goulash dinner an even more economical and convenient choice for any family.

Fridge and freezer tips

To maximize the longevity and freshness of your cheesy beef goulash:

• Refrigeration: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure containers are sealed tightly to prevent drying out and absorption of other fridge odors.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking. This makes your family friendly goulash perfect for batch cooking.

These tips help preserve the quality and taste of your easy weeknight goulash for future enjoyment.

Best way to reheat

Reheating your classic old fashioned goulash properly ensures it tastes just as good as the day you made it.

• Stovetop (Recommended): For best results, transfer the goulash to a saucepan or Dutch oven. Add a splash of beef broth or water (1/4 to 1/2 cup) to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: For individual servings, place goulash in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon or two of broth/water. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Avoid overheating, which can make the pasta mushy. Gently reheating preserves the texture of the ground beef macaroni goulash and the richness of the savory tomato sauce, ensuring a delightful leftover experience. Remember to check out Carina Recipes on Pinterest and Instagram for more cooking inspiration.