Sharing is caring!

There’s something about a big pot of old-fashioned goulash with ground beef that feels like home.

This comforting, one-pot meal has been a family favorite for generations — hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce that fills the kitchen with the most delicious smell. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table without even having to call them twice.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Goulash

This old-fashioned American goulash is budget-friendly, easy to make, and can feed a crowd. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy Sunday dinners, or when you just need a bowl of nostalgia. Even better? It reheats beautifully — making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. I even froze half of mine this last time, and it was still delicious once thawed out.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish- optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the beef:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the aromatics:
   Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Build the sauce:
   Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the pasta:
   Pour in the beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir everything together, cover, and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Finish and serve:
   If you like your goulash creamy and cheesy, stir in the shredded cheddar just before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips for the Best Goulash

• Make it heartier: Add a handful of corn or bell peppers for a little texture and sweetness.
• For extra flavor: Swap part of the beef for Italian sausage.
• Want it creamy? Stir in a little sour cream or Velveeta at the end.
• Make-ahead magic: Goulash tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld together.

What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Goulash

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of buttery garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even steamed green beans. And don’t forget to finish with a cozy dessert like my Old-Fashioned Chess Pie for the ultimate Southern comfort meal.

Bringing Back the Classics

Old-fashioned recipes like this one remind us why we fell in love with home cooking in the first place — simple ingredients, a little time, and a lot of love. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this goulash will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Love One-Pot Meals? Check These Out!

• One Pan Cheeseburger Pasta
• Autumn Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
• One Pan Pasta Meals Roundup