Old-Fashioned Goulash brings back nostalgic memories for many, evoking warmth and comfort with every bite. This one-pot dish is a quintessential choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining hearty ingredients such as ground beef, elbow macaroni, and colorful vegetables into a satisfying meal. It’s not just easy to prepare; it’s also a wonderful way to use up pantry staples, making it a go-to dish for those on a budget or looking for hassle-free cooking.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Old-Fashioned Goulash. First and foremost, it’s quick—ready in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The flavors meld beautifully as it simmers, and the layout of the ingredients makes it budget-friendly. Plus, this recipe is perfect for picky eaters; the colorful mix of vegetables and pasta combined with savory beef ensures everyone at the table will find something to enjoy.
“I couldn’t believe how easy this goulash was to make! The whole family loved it, and it brought back memories of my childhood.” – Sarah M.
Preparing Old-Fashioned Goulash
Making Old-Fashioned Goulash does not require advanced culinary skills. In fact, the overall process is straightforward: brown the meat, sauté some vegetables, add in your liquids and pasta, and let everything come together. It’s as much about enjoying the cooking process as it is about the final dish. So, let’s gather our ingredients.
What you’ll need
For this classic recipe, you’re going to need the following:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a healthier twist or a meatless option.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. As it cooks, break it into small, crumbled pieces.
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables become tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then add the elbow macaroni.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables along with the Italian seasoning, allowing everything to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are heated through.
- Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper before serving warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Old-Fashioned Goulash, presentation can elevate your dish. Consider topping individual bowls with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a more balanced meal. This dish can also shine as a comforting lunch the next day, so feel free to make a big batch!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing your goulash is simple. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze any leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers and label them with the date. They’ll last for about 3 months frozen. When reheating, make sure to heat your goulash to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F.
Tricks for success
To elevate your Old-Fashioned Goulash, consider the following tips. First, don’t rush the browning step; allowing the meat to develop color brings depth to the flavors. Adding a splash of red wine (if you’re comfortable) when you incorporate the beef broth can also intensify the dish. Lastly, feel free to experiment with additional spices, such as smoked paprika or a bay leaf, for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative twists
Old-Fashioned Goulash is ripe for variations! If you’d like to cater to specific dietary needs, swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta or use lentils for a protein-packed option. For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes. You could also make a Mexican-inspired version by adding black beans, corn, and chili powder.
Common questions
What is the cooking time for Old-Fashioned Goulash?
The total cooking time is about 30-35 minutes, which includes both cooking the meat and simmering the pasta.
Can I make this goulash in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the fridge.
How should I reheat leftovers safely?
To safely reheat, place your leftover goulash in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed. Ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
PrintOld-Fashioned Goulash
A comforting and nostalgic one-pot dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and colorful vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it into small, crumbled pieces.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté until tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then add the elbow macaroni.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving warm.
Notes
Top with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor. Pairs well with crusty bread or a green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
