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Old Fashioned Goulash
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash to bring back memories of cozy family dinners and simple home-cooked comfort. This classic American-style goulash, also known as “American Chop Suey,” is hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly. It’s a one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and plenty of seasoning — perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want something nostalgic that warms you from the inside out, this old-fashioned dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Let’s bring back the taste of tradition with this easy, satisfying goulash recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the meat
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it starts to brown. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is about halfway done, add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and the beef is no longer pink.
Step 2: Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. The aroma at this stage will already start filling your kitchen with that unmistakable home-cooked comfort smell.
Step 3: Add the tomato ingredients
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato paste. Stir everything together until the flavors blend. Add the Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of sugar to round out the acidity from the tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld.
Step 4: Add the liquid and macaroni
Now pour in the beef broth or water and bring the mixture to a light boil. Stir in the uncooked macaroni, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful sauce and thicken the dish beautifully.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Once the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, give everything a final stir. If you like it cheesier, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover for a few minutes until it melts. Serve hot and enjoy a dish that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying.
Tips for the Best Goulash
– For deeper flavor, try using half ground beef and half ground sausage.
– A splash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
– If the mixture gets too thick, add a little more broth or water.
– Make it heartier by stirring in cooked corn or kidney beans.
– Let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving — it thickens and tastes even better.
Variations to Try
While this recipe sticks to the classic version, you can easily customize it. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or peas to sneak in more nutrients. If you’re a cheese lover, try adding a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a gooier, creamier texture.
For a smoky twist, sprinkle in a bit of smoked paprika or add some diced bacon. You can even make it Tex-Mex style by replacing the Italian seasoning with chili powder and cumin, and topping it with sour cream and green onions.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Old Fashioned Goulash is a meal prep champion. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to blend. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. It can also be microwaved for about 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If you’d like to freeze it, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish stands on its own, but it’s also wonderful paired with classic comfort sides. Try serving it with warm cornbread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. For a cozy winter meal, add a cup of vegetable soup or coleslaw on the side.
And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a few sliced green onions can turn this simple meal into something special.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 410 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 640mg
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Goulash is proof that the best recipes never go out of style. It’s hearty, flavorful, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Each spoonful delivers that classic, savory goodness that makes you feel instantly at home. Whether it’s a family dinner or a make-ahead meal for the week, this goulash will bring smiles, warmth, and full stomachs every single time.