If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big, cozy hug from the inside, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless, one-pot wonder that brings together tender ground meat, savory tomato-rich sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all bubbling with rich flavors and melted cheese. This recipe hits all the right notes—simple ingredients blend seamlessly to create a dish that is both hearty and nostalgic. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe promises to become a dinner table favorite that brings everyone together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in shaping the flavor, texture, and color of the final dish. Every component is essential, from the savory ground beef to the fragrant seasonings and the gooey cheese that finishes it all off.
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey: The hearty base that makes this dish satisfying and protein-packed.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a wonderful aromatic depth and slight bite to the sauce.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: Gives sweetness and texture, softening as it cooks.
- 2 1/2 cups water: Helps in simmering and blending flavors with the seasonings.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Brings an extra savory kick that enriches the sauce.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce: Forms the thick, luscious base of the goulash.
- 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes: Add texture and a fresh brightness to balance the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that lifts the dish with herbaceous notes.
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning: Introduces a smoky, slightly spicy flavor punch.
- 3 bay leaves: Provide subtle earthiness as the dish simmers slowly.
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt: Enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering.
- 1/2 tablespoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: The classic pasta that captures sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to create that irresistible gooey top layer.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Stirred in to add sharp creaminess and depth.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook your ground beef or turkey until it’s beautifully browned and halfway cooked through. This browning creates those tasty caramelized bits that make the dish so flavorful. Once done, transfer the meat to a bowl and set it aside to rest for a moment.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing them gently until they become soft, golden, and oh-so-fragrant. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your goulash, making your kitchen smell incredible.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned meat to the skillet and pour in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything thoroughly so the rich tomato base envelops the meat and vegetables, setting the stage for flavor melding.
Step 4: Season the Goulash
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to ensure that these seasonings penetrate every bite, creating that signature Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe taste we all love.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Cover your skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat. Around 20 minutes is perfect to allow flavors to mingle deeply and the sauce to thicken beautifully. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking.
Step 6: Add the Elbow Macaroni
Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni into the simmering sauce, cover again, and cook for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the rich tomato-meat mixture and become perfectly tender. This is where the comforting heart of the dish comes alive.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is just right, remove those bay leaves and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts into the hot goulash, making it creamy and indulgent without overshadowing the other flavors.
Step 8: Add the Mozzarella
Right before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Let it melt slightly—this creates a luscious, melty cheese layer that invites eager forks and spoons to dig in.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few torn basil leaves can brighten up the look and add a fresh herbal note. If you like a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on top brings exciting warmth that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
Because this goulash is full of robust flavors and textures, it pairs wonderfully with light and crisp sides, such as a green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness. Garlic bread is another classic, perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce and adding crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe straight from a rustic cast-iron skillet at the table for a cozy, homey feel. You can also portion it in individual oven-safe bowls, topping each with an extra handful of cheese and broiling briefly for a bubbly golden crust that will wow guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making the leftovers even more satisfying.
Freezing
This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up, so it stays creamy and perfectly sauced.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor in this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe. Just be sure to brown it well for maximum taste.
Do I have to use elbow macaroni?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to swap it with any small pasta shape you prefer, like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time accordingly for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté vegetables first, then combine everything in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the pasta is tender, adding pasta and cheese toward the end for the perfect finish.
What if I want it spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce when you season the goulash. Just add a little at a time and taste as you go to find your perfect heat level.
How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Keep an eye on the cooking time after adding the pasta and stir occasionally. Also, avoid over-simmering after the pasta is tender to maintain ideal texture in this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe is like inviting a classic taste of home right into your kitchen. It’s a recipe that warms both your belly and your heart, perfect for any occasion when you want to serve up something reliably delicious and filling. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish featuring ground beef or turkey simmered with tomatoes, Italian and adobo seasonings, and elbow macaroni, finished with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for a cozy family meal, it combines rich flavors and tender pasta in a one-pan skillet recipe.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned and halfway cooked. Once done, set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, if needed, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked meat to the pan, then add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
- Season the Goulash: Add the Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to mix the flavors.
- Simmer the Mixture: Cover the skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the Elbow Macaroni: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for an additional 30 minutes until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the bay leaves, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the goulash.
- Add the Mozzarella: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and allow it to melt slightly.
- Serve Suggestions: Pair your Old Fashioned Goulash with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors. Refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade work well alongside.
- Top Tips: Substitute ground beef with turkey or change pasta shapes if desired. Avoid over-seasoning by tasting before adding extra salt or spices.
- Storing and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Enjoy! Now that everything is ready, enjoy making and sharing this classic, comforting goulash.
Notes
- Use turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Any small pasta shape can be substituted for elbow macaroni.
- Taste before adding additional salt or seasonings to avoid over-seasoning.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated or frozen for later meals.
- Adding a splash of water when reheating helps maintain sauce consistency.
- Serving with salad or garlic bread balances the richness of the dish.
