Simple Old Fashioned Goulash – Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our Simple Old Fashioned Goulash recipe. This beloved classic has been a cherished dish in households for generations, and it’s time for you to experience its magic. With tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, this goulash will transport you to a place of comfort and culinary delight. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or seeking a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
Picture this: It’s a chilly winter evening, and my husband and I are eagerly awaiting dinner. The aroma of simmering goulash fills our cozy kitchen, making our mouths water with anticipation. This recipe holds a special place in our hearts because it’s a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. From the first time my husband tasted this dish as a child, he fell head over heels in love with it. Now, it has become a beloved staple in our own little family.
Every time we prepare this goulash, memories come flooding back. We reminisce about the times spent around the dinner table with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories while savoring the comforting flavors of this classic dish. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a connection to our past and a celebration of the present. I can’t wait for you to create your own beautiful memories with this Simple Old Fashioned Goulash.
Why This Simple Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe Will Win Your Heart?
- An Easy Classic: This goulash recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tender elbow macaroni, hearty ground beef, and a medley of herbs and spices creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. From the robust tomato sauce to the subtle hints of oregano, basil, and thyme, each bite is a burst of savory delight.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist to this recipe by incorporating additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties to enhance the creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
- 450g Elbow macaroni
- 900g Ground beef
- ½ Onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 794g Tomato sauce
- 567g Diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp. Oregano
- 1 tsp. Basil
- ¼ tsp. Rosemary
- 1 tsp. Parsley
- ¼ tsp. Thyme
- 1 tsp. Salt
- ½ tsp. Black pepper
- ½ tsp. Paprika
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
Directions:
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook for 4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and onions are tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, stirring to incorporate the flavors.
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, rosemary, parsley, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, reducing the heat to low. Stir the mixture gently, allowing it to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and the flavors meld together beautifully.
If desired, mix in the cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the goulash, adding a creamy and delightful twist.
Serve your Simple Old Fashioned Goulash warm, and savor each mouthwatering bite!
Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Just chop them up and sauté them with the ground beef and onions.
- For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef or even substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- This goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
- Pair this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete your comforting meal.
In conclusion, this Simple Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a nostalgic journey into the comfort of home-cooked meals. With its effortless preparation, rich flavors, and the ability to customize it to your liking, this goulash is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe has it all.
As you take that first bite, you’ll be transported to a place where memories are made and stories are shared. The blend of tender macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and aromatic spices will fill your kitchen with a warmth that only comes from a beloved family recipe. So gather your loved ones, set the table, and savor each spoonful of this Simple Old Fashioned Goulash.
Let this recipe be the cornerstone of heartwarming family moments, and a reminder of the simple joys found in the pleasure of good food and shared laughter. It’s time to embrace the tradition and create your own lasting memories with this timeless goulash recipe.
FAQ
Can I freeze the goulash?
Absolutely! This goulash freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional for goulash, you can certainly experiment with other pasta shapes, such as rotini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with plant-based alternatives like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I serve with goulash?
Goulash pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
Can I use different herbs and spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your personal taste. You can even add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spiciness.

Simple Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
- 450 g Elbow macaroni
- 900 g Ground beef
- ½ Onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 794 g Tomato sauce
- 567 g Diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp. Oregano
- 1 tsp. Basil
- ¼ tsp. Rosemary
- 1 tsp. Parsley
- ¼ tsp. Thyme
- 1 tsp. Salt
- ½ tsp. Black pepper
- ½ tsp. Paprika
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook for 4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and onions are tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, stirring to incorporate the flavors.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, rosemary, parsley, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, reducing the heat to low. Stir the mixture gently, allowing it to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- If desired, mix in the cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the goulash, adding a creamy and delightful twist.
- Serve your Simple Old Fashioned Goulash warm, and savor each mouthwatering bite!
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