Old Fashioned Goulash: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food cherished for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation. This dish has been a staple in American households for generations, offering a satisfying one-pot meal that warms the soul. Unlike Hungarian goulash, which features a broth-based consistency with paprika and beef, the American version is a thicker, tomato-based pasta dish infused with ground beef, spices, and cheese.
Whether you grew up enjoying this dish at family gatherings or are new to its nostalgic charm, Old Fashioned Goulash is the perfect meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy dinners. Its budget-friendly ingredients, simple steps, and ability to feed a crowd make it a favorite across all generations. Plus, it can be easily customized to suit different taste preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the classic recipe, expert cooking techniques, storage and reheating methods, dietary modifications, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make the best Old Fashioned Goulash right in your own kitchen!
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef & Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic & Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes & Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Goulash: Add the beef broth, then bring the mixture to a light simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer for another 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using cheese, turn off the heat and mix in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired.
Advanced Techniques
1. Enhance the Flavor with Spices
For an extra depth of flavor, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a splash of red wine to elevate the dish.
2. Slow Cooker Method
To make Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker, brown the beef and onion first, then transfer everything (except pasta) into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, adding cooked pasta just before serving.
3. Make It Creamier
For a richer and creamier texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
4. Extra Hearty Goulash
For a more robust dish, add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced zucchini to boost both flavor and nutrition.
5. Thicker or Soupier Consistency
- If you prefer thicker goulash, reduce the broth by ½ cup and let the mixture simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- If you like soupier goulash, add ½ cup extra broth or a splash of tomato juice.
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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
- Old Fashioned Goulash freezes well for up to 3 months.
- To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Preventing Mushy Pasta
- If you plan to freeze, consider cooking the pasta separately and mixing it in when reheating. This keeps the texture firm.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
1. Gluten-Free Version
- Swap regular pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni or zucchini noodles.
- Ensure the broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
2. Low-Carb or Keto Goulash
- Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
- Use sugar-free tomato sauce to keep the dish keto-friendly.
3. Dairy-Free Option
- Omit the cheese or use dairy-free shredded cheese.
- Substitute olive oil for butter if needed.
4. Vegetarian Adaptation
- Replace ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or lentils for a protein-rich alternative.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs About American Goulash
1. What’s the Difference Between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?
- American Goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish with ground beef, while Hungarian Goulash is a stew with chunks of beef, paprika, and potatoes.
2. Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
- Yes! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
3. How Can I Prevent My Pasta from Getting Too Soft?
- Cook the pasta slightly al dente and avoid overcooking. If reheating, add a little extra broth to maintain the texture.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
- Absolutely! Try ground turkey, ground chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
5. How Can I Make This Spicier?
- Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to give it an extra kick.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With its hearty beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, this dish has stood the test of time as a beloved family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it as a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep staple, or a freezer-friendly option for busy days ahead, it’s guaranteed to deliver that warm, satisfying feeling with every bite.
What makes this dish so great is its versatility. By following the classic recipe and incorporating advanced cooking techniques, you can elevate its flavors even further. Plus, with a little creativity and by adjusting ingredients to suit specific dietary needs, Old Fashioned Goulash can be easily tailored to meet everyone’s preferences. Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a healthier version, or a vegetarian twist, the possibilities are endless.