A nostalgic, hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Tender beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce come together in this comforting, old-fashioned goulash that’s been a favorite across generations.
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
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1 pound (450g) ground beef
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups (480ml) beef broth
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1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
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1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
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1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish (optional):
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra shredded cheese
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if using, allowing it to melt into the goulash for extra creaminess.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the goulash into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese, and serve hot.
Timing
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Servings: About 6 servings
Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you grew up eating this cozy dish or you’re trying it for the first time, it’s guaranteed to warm hearts and bellies. Serve it with a side salad or some warm buttered bread for a full meal that feels like home. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave a taste of classic home-cooked goodness.