Traditional goulash was a regular dish in my childhood home, and even as an adult, it remains a constant favorite. This comforting recipe features robust ground beef simmered in a flavorful blend of tomatoes, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and various spices. The addition of gooey cheddar cheese contributes richness and texture, all complemented by the timeless presence of classic elbow macaroni.
Each time I indulge in traditional goulash, I find myself reminiscing about my childhood. There’s an inexplicable harmony in the combination of beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and cheese that makes it truly delightful. Not only is it a source of comfort, but it’s also a quick and simple dish to prepare. This recipe requires just 45 minutes, making it a regular go-to in my household for a satisfying weekday meal.
Why You’ll Love This Classic American Goulash
There’s a lot to like about this rich beef goulash. Here are some reasons why you’ll love making it.
Simple: Preparing this dish is incredibly simple. It involves just a few uncomplicated steps, and the entire process can be completed in 45 minutes. Moreover, the recipe predominantly relies on ingredients that are likely already stocked in your refrigerator and pantry.
Storable: The dish holds up excellently when stored in either the refrigerator or freezer. I enjoy preparing a generous batch, ensuring that I can savor old fashioned goulash whenever the craving strikes.
Healthy comfort food: Unlike many comfort foods that tend to be unhealthy, this recipe is a satisfying option without compromising on your well-being. It boasts ample protein from ground beef and a modest amount of cheddar cheese, without the addition of excess fat. Additionally, the dish is rich in tomatoes, making it a comfort food choice that you can indulge in without guilt
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni – You can substitute other types of pasta if you want, but macaroni is the traditional choice.
- Ground beef
- Onion – I like to use a yellow onion for this recipe, but red or white onions will also work.
Garlic - Worcestershire sauce
- Canned tomato sauce
- Canned diced tomatoes – Use petite diced tomatoes if possible.
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper – Make sure to use freshly ground black pepper.
- Cheddar cheese – Shred your own cheese for best results, but pre-shredded works fine.
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How to Make Goulash
Here’s how to make this simple, comforting goulash. It only takes about 45 minutes!
Prep: Preheat your oven to 350F.
Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of water, and add the elbow macaroni. Cook for 3 minutes less than what the package suggests.
Drain: When the pasta is done cooking, drain it.
Cook the beef and onions: Heat a skillet over high heat. Add the beef and the onions, and break the meat apart. Cook until the beef is browned, about 6-7 minutes. Drain the fat from the skillet.
Add the garlic: Put the garlic in the skillet and cook until fragrant. This should take about 1 minute.
Mix in the wet ingredients: Add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
Add the seasonings: Put the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet, and stir to combine.
Mix in the pasta and cheese: Stir in the macaroni and the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is mixed together.
Bake: If your skillet is oven safe, place it in the oven. If not, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish. Bake until the cheese is fully melted, and the goulash is bubbling. This should take 20-25 minutes. Then serve.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tricks and tips for making this beefy goulash.
Salt the water: To enhance the flavor of your pasta, incorporate a small amount of salt into the boiling water. This simple step imparts a subtle seasoning to the macaroni, contributing to an overall improved taste.
Adjust the seasonings: When incorporating Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the sauce, begin with modest amounts. Taste the sauce and make adjustments according to your preferences, as individual preferences for Italian seasoning or salt levels may vary. Customize the sauce to achieve the desired flavor that suits your taste.
Get some color on the beef: Don’t be scared of getting some color on the ground meat. Browning the beef is the secret to getting the most flavor out of the meat. Make sure to cook the beef until it’s pretty brown before continuing with the recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash
This recipe is easy to store and reheat. Keep leftover goulash in an airtight container and it will last in the fridge for 4 days. Reheat in the microwave on 80% power in 30-second increments.
Can You Freeze This Recipe?
Absolutely! Let the goulash cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost or thaw completely before reheating.
Enjoy your delicious old-fashioned goulash!
