Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash

This hearty old fashioned goulash recipe brings together simple ingredients for a comforting family meal that feels like a warm hug. The combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce creates that nostalgic flavor that makes this American classic so beloved in homes across the country.

I first made this goulash during a particularly hectic week when I needed something substantial that would please everyone at the table. It's since become our go to comfort food on busy weeknights when I want something hearty that brings the family together without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ground beef provides the hearty protein base choose 80/20 for best flavor balance
• Elbow macaroni creates the perfect bite sized vehicles for sauce choose a quality brand that holds its shape
• Onion and garlic form the aromatic foundation that enhances the beef flavor
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes create the signature rich sauce use petite diced for better texture
• Italian seasoning adds classic herb flavor without measuring multiple spices
• Worcestershire sauce brings depth and umami notes just a tablespoon transforms the dish
• Cheddar cheese creates that irresistible gooey topping sharp varieties add more flavor contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to come to temperature fully. This ensures even cooking throughout the casserole and proper melting of the cheese topping. Taking this simple step prevents cold spots in your finished dish.

Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding your macaroni. Cook the pasta for exactly 3 minutes less than the package directions indicate. This undercooking is intentional as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven with the sauce. This prevents mushy pasta in your final dish and maintains that perfect texture.

Brown the Ground Beef

Heat your skillet thoroughly before adding the beef and onions together. Break the meat into consistent small crumbles as it cooks for even browning and flavor distribution. Watch for the meat to turn from pink to brown completely which takes about 6 to 7 minutes of cooking. Be sure to drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy final dish.

Add Garlic and Sauce

Once beef is browned add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant which takes about 60 seconds. Avoid overcooking garlic as it can become bitter. Pour in your Worcestershire sauce tomato sauce and diced tomatoes stirring to combine thoroughly. This creates the rich sauce base that defines classic goulash.

Season the Sauce

Add Italian seasoning salt and pepper distributing evenly throughout the mixture. Take a moment to taste the sauce and adjust seasonings to your preference. This personalization makes the recipe truly yours and ensures balanced flavors in the final dish.

Combine Pasta and Cheese

Gently fold in the partially cooked macaroni ensuring each piece gets coated with sauce. Add the cheddar cheese and mix until evenly distributed throughout. The cheese will mostly melt during baking creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout the dish.

Bake the Goulash

Transfer the mixture to an oven safe dish if your skillet cannot go in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes watching for the edges to bubble and the top to become slightly golden. This final baking stage allows all the flavors to meld together and creates that classic comfort food texture.

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My family particularly loves when I add a little extra cheese on top during the last five minutes of baking. That golden cheese crust becomes something everyone fights over at the table. I've found that stirring in a tablespoon of butter just before serving adds an extra layer of richness that makes this homestyle dish truly special.

Make Ahead Options

This goulash is the perfect make ahead meal for busy weeks. You can prepare it completely up to the baking stage then refrigerate covered for up to two days. When ready to serve simply bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes since it will be starting cold. The flavors actually develop and improve with time making this an excellent option for meal prepping.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover goulash in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to 3 months. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce during storage so when reheating add a splash of broth or tomato sauce to restore the original consistency. Microwave individual portions covered for about 2 minutes or reheat larger amounts in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Customization Ideas

This recipe welcomes creative variations to make it your own. Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots with the onions for extra vegetables. For a spicier version incorporate a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. Swap the cheddar for mozzarella pepper jack or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles. Some families even enjoy adding a can of corn or kidney beans to make it even more hearty and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this goulash with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a tangy creaminess that complements the rich tomato base. For a special touch sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil over each serving for color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple vinegar based coleslaw which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich main course.

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Common Questions

→ Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish up to 2 days ahead. Assemble everything but don't bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What's the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?

American goulash (like this one) typically contains ground beef, macaroni, and tomato sauce, baked as a casserole. Hungarian goulash is a stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and no pasta. They share the name but are quite different dishes with distinct flavor profiles.

→ Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Absolutely! Cool the goulash completely, then portion into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. The texture of the pasta may change slightly but will still be delicious.

→ What can I add to customize this goulash?

This versatile dish welcomes many additions! Try bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, or peas for extra vegetables. Spice lovers can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For more depth, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste or a splash of red wine. Different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack also work well.

→ What sides pair well with goulash?

Since goulash is hearty and complete on its own, simple sides work best. Try a light green salad with vinaigrette, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread to soak up the sauce. For casual gatherings, serve with pickle spears or a simple slaw for texture contrast.

→ How do I know when the goulash is properly baked?

The goulash is ready when it's bubbling around the edges, the cheese is completely melted and slightly golden, and the center is hot throughout. If using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.