Introduction
There are some meals that just instantly transport you back to simpler times, to family dinners around a bustling table, and to the comforting aroma of home cooking wafting through the house. Old Fashioned Goulash is unequivocally one of those dishes. This isn’t the hearty, paprika-laden stew you might find in Hungary, but rather the beloved American-style ground beef and macaroni casserole that has graced countless dinner tables across generations. It’s a true classic, celebrated for its uncomplicated ingredients, straightforward preparation, and deeply satisfying flavor profile that speaks to the soul.
What makes this Old Fashioned Goulash so special is its incredible ability to deliver maximum comfort with minimal fuss. It’s the ultimate weeknight hero, transforming humble pantry staples like ground beef, elbow macaroni, and canned tomatoes into a rich, savory, and utterly delicious meal. Every spoonful is a nostalgic embrace, a perfect harmony of tender beef, al dente pasta, and a tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce that clings to every piece. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making even the busiest evenings feel a little more manageable and a lot more comforting.
This recipe celebrates the “old-fashioned” in every sense – it’s honest, unpretentious, and designed to feed a hungry crowd with a smile. It’s a budget-friendly powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Whether you grew up eating it or are discovering its magic for the first time, this American Goulash promises to become a cherished addition to your family’s meal rotation. Get ready to stir up some serious comfort and create new memories with this timeless classic.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but recommended)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water, plus more if needed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)