Classic Hearty Old Goulash

This old fashioned goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together juicy ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce with melty cheddar cheese. It’s a reliable weeknight meal that fills you up without complicated steps or exotic ingredients.

I grew up eating this dish almost every winter and now my family looks forward to it just as much. There’s something about the blend of familiar flavors that feels like a warm hug on a cold night.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: traditional pasta that holds the sauce well choose highquality for best texture
• Ground beef: provides hearty protein lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat
• Onion: yellow onion brings a mild sweetness and depth pick firm, unblemished bulbs
• Garlic: adds aromatic sharpness fresh cloves are best
• Worcestershire sauce: boosts umami and balances acidity ensure it is fresh for ideal flavor
• Tomato sauce: the base of the rich sauce select no sugar added for a natural taste
• Petit diced tomatoes: add texture and freshness
• Italian seasoning: a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary use fresh if possible or good quality storebought
• Salt: essential for seasoning
• Black pepper: freshly ground gives the best bite and aroma
• Cheddar cheese: shredded for melting into the dish freshly shredded is preferable to preshredded for creamier texture

Instructions

Prep the oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s hot and ready for baking the goulash later.

Cook the macaroni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for about three minutes less than the package directions to keep it firm, then drain thoroughly.

Brown the beef and onions:

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. Break the beef apart with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Drain any fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.

Add the garlic:

Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about one minute. This quick step ensures the garlic flavor melds into the meat without burning.

Combine sauces and seasoning:

Add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir until well blended. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preference.

Mix in pasta and cheese:

Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the skillet. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is evenly combined. This makes the sauce creamy and rich.

Bake the goulash:

If your skillet is oven safe, place it directly in the oven. Otherwise, transfer the goulash into a casserole dish. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is bubbly throughout. Serve hot.

I always enjoy the moment when the cheesy top is golden and bubbling right out of the oven. It reminds me of family dinners when everyone sat down together to enjoy this cozy meal after a long day.

Storage Tips

Leftover goulash keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave at 80 percent power in short 30 second bursts to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter version. Use your favorite pasta shape if elbow macaroni is not available. Fresh herbs can be used instead of Italian seasoning but increase quantities slightly because dried herbs are more concentrated.

Serving Suggestions

Classic pairings include a crisp Caesar salad or simple tossed greens. Buttered saltine crackers add a nostalgic touch from my childhood. For a heartier meal, try it with garlic knots or warm cornbread.

This comforting goulash is simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it hot and enjoy the cozy flavors with family.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute the elbow macaroni with other pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work well and hold the sauce effectively.

→ How do I get the best flavor from the ground beef?

Brown the beef thoroughly until it develops a deep color; this enhances the richness and overall taste.

→ What is Italian seasoning composed of?

It's a blend typically made of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, adding aromatic herbs to the sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 3 months.

→ How should I reheat leftovers for best results?

Reheat gently in the microwave on medium power or in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.

→ What cheese is best for melting in this dish?

Sharp cheddar cheese melts well, providing creamy texture and a savory finish.