I have such fond memories of making this classic Ground Beef Goulash recipe. It’s easy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it my go-to option on busy evenings. The rich, savory sauce mixed with perfectly tender pasta is a surefire hit every time.

One bite, and it takes me straight back to cozy family dinners. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this American Goulash is so beloved.

Old Fashioned Ground Beef Goulash American Goulash Recipe

Cooking Time

Here’s how quickly you can whip up this hearty meal:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this goulash to life:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Variations

If you’re looking to change things up, here are some creative variations you can try while keeping the essence of this classic dish intact:

Dairy-Free: Swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether.
Low-Carb: Replace macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also enjoy similar low-carb options by trying recipes like Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils, plant-based meat crumbles, or diced mushrooms.
Flavor Boosters: Add green bell peppers, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large skillet or Dutch oven: For cooking your meat and sauce.
Saucepan: For boiling the macaroni.
Wooden spoon: To stir and combine ingredients.
Strainer: To drain the cooked pasta.

How to Make Old Fashioned Ground Beef Goulash?

Follow these simple steps to create a warm, comforting meal packed with rich flavors!

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Start by heating a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet. Add ground beef and cook it on medium-high heat until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks and drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Throw in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Savory Sauce

Add in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Lower the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors blend beautifully.

Step 4: Prep the Pasta

While your sauce simmers, boil a pot of salted water. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta directly into your skillet with the sauce. Stir until the macaroni is completely coated. Taste-test and adjust your seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Time to Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the goulash into bowls or plates, and for an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color!

For more hearty lunch options, you can also explore dishes like Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish’s appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it too:

Quick and Easy: A hearty, satisfying meal in under an hour.
Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting dish that everyone loves, from kids to adults.
Customizable: The recipe adapts easily for dietary needs or flavor preferences.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Ground Beef Goulash?

Old-fashioned goulash is the ultimate comfort meal, and serving it can be just as fun as making it. Here are some ways to elevate your presentation and flavor:

Sprinkle fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with buttery garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Moreover, you can also enjoy similar family dinner ideas like Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs.

Nutritional Information

For a single serving, here’s what you can expect (approximate values):

Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 12g

Make Ahead and Storage

This goulash isn’t just easy to make; it’s also a star when it comes to storage!

Refrigeration

If you’ve got leftovers, pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezing

You can also freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Divide it into portions and store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Meal Prep Bonus

Since this dish stores well, you can cook a big batch and enjoy it over the week. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few personal tips I’ve learned through making this recipe countless times:

Undercook Your Pasta: This step is key to preventing overcooked, mushy macaroni.
Season as You Go: Layering the seasoning during different steps boosts the dish’s depth of flavor.
Grate Your Cheese Fresh: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheddar melts better and tastes creamier.
Go Heavy on the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, toss in an extra clove or two for an added punch.
Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so make a big batch to save time on busy days.

Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it will find its way into your family’s favorite meal rotation. The nostalgic flavors, combined with its simplicity, make it a recipe for the ages. Happy cooking!

You can watch this video to follow the recipe instructions.