This Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, one-pot dish full of rich tomato flavors, tender pasta, and savory ground beef or turkey. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy to prepare and feeds a crowd. This dish has been a family favorite for generations, and it’s guaranteed to bring nostalgic warmth to your table.
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey: Adds hearty protein.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic: For a savory, aromatic base.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 ½ cups water: Helps cook the pasta and create a saucy consistency.
- ½ cup beef broth: Enhances the richness of the flavor.
- ⅓ cup olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and prevents sticking.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce: Provides a robust tomato base.
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and tang.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Boosts umami and enhances flavor.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings a hint of herby goodness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: Classic pasta choice for goulash.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): Stir in before serving for a creamy twist.
- ½ cup bell peppers, diced: Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- Red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté for an additional 3–4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
2. Build the Sauce
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, beef broth, and olive oil.
- Add the soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta
- Add the elbow macaroni directly to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the liquid. The goulash should be thick and saucy.
4. Taste and Adjust
- Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.
5. Serve
- Serve the goulash hot in bowls.
- Garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all the flavor.
- Classic Comfort: Rich, hearty, and nostalgic.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep.
Enjoy this Old Fashioned Goulash for a warm, satisfying meal that will remind you of simpler times!