Old Fashioned Goulash

There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of old fashioned goulash, with its perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato sauce. This American-style goulash (not to be confused with Hungarian goulash) is a beloved family recipe that’s been gracing dinner tables for generations.

Also known as “American Chop Suey” in some regions, this hearty one-pot meal combines simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying dinner that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s the kind of meal that takes you right back to childhood memories of weeknight family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This

• Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
• Uses basic pantry ingredients you likely already have
• One-pot recipe means minimal cleanup
• Perfect for batch cooking and freezing
• Even better the next day as leftovers

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks
2. Add diced onion and garlic, cook until onion is translucent
3. Stir in uncooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender
6. Let stand 5 minutes before serving

Tips & Variations

• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option
• Add diced bell peppers with the onions for extra vegetables
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving
• Use different pasta shapes like shells or rotini if desired
• Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty goulash with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with vinaigrette makes the perfect light accompaniment to balance this rich, comforting meal.

Notes

• Stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container
• Add a splash of broth when reheating if mixture seems dry

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it reheats beautifully and many say it tastes even better the next day.
• Is this spicy? No, this is a mild, family-friendly dish. Add red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
• Can I use pre-cooked pasta? It’s best to cook the pasta in the sauce as it absorbs the flavors better.
• Why is my goulash too soupy? Let it stand for 5-10 minutes after cooking; the sauce will thicken as it rests.

Old Fashioned Goulash

Recipe by Full Recipe

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of old fashioned goulash, with its perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich

Servings4

Prep15 min

Cook45 min

Calories—

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks
2. Add diced onion and garlic, cook until onion is translucent
3. Stir in uncooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender
6. Let stand 5 minutes before serving

Notes

• Stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container
• Add a splash of broth when reheating if mixture seems dry