Old Fashioned Goulash Meal

This classic goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food for any family gathering. Packed with rich tomato flavors, tender macaroni, and hearty ground beef or turkey, it is a one-pot dish that's simple yet satisfying. The melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top lend a creamy, cheesy finish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly fall evening, and it quickly became a family favorite. Even my picky eaters love it and look forward to having it often.

• Ground beef or turkey (2 lbs): Choose quality meat for rich flavor and protein.
• Minced garlic (3 tsp): Enhances the dish with bold aroma and taste.
• Large yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory depth to the base.
• Water (2 ½ cups): Contributes to the liquid base for cooking macaroni.
• Beef broth (½ cup): Adds a concentrated meaty flavor.
• Olive oil (⅓ cup): Helps sauté the aromatics while infusing richness.
• Tomato sauce (2 15-ounce cans): Provides a smooth and rich tomato base.
• Diced tomatoes (2 15-ounce cans): Adds texture and balancing acidity.
• Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): Delivers classic herb notes.
• Adobo seasoning (1 tbsp): A flavorful all-purpose seasoning.
• Bay leaves (3): Infuses a subtle earthy aroma.
• Seasoned salt (1 tbsp): Boosts the savory profile.
• Black pepper (½ tbsp): Adds subtle spice.
• Elbow macaroni, uncooked (2 cups): The perfect pasta shape to absorb the rich flavors.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For a gooey, creamy garnish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Creates that deliciously cheesy touch.

How To Make Old Fashioned Goulash

Sauté the Ground Meat:

Cook the ground meat in a large pan over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until half done. Remove from heat to avoid overcooking at this stage.

Add Garlic Onions and Olive Oil:

Add garlic, diced onions, and olive oil directly to the pan. Cook over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked, and the onions turn translucent. This step adds a fragrant base to the dish.

Pour in Liquids and Seasonings:

Pour water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes into the pan. Stir in Italian seasoning, Adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Simmer the Mixture:

Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer slowly for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure all ingredients integrate perfectly.

Add the Elbow Macaroni:

Stir uncooked elbow macaroni into the simmering mixture. This allows the pasta to soak up all the seasonings.

Cook Until Macaroni is Tender:

Cover the pan again and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Cook until pasta becomes tender and flavorful.

Remove Bay Leaves:

Take out the bay leaves before serving. They’ve done their job of infusing flavor.

Stir in Cheddar Cheese:

Mix the shredded cheddar cheese into the dish. Stir until it fully melts and coats the goulash evenly.

Add Mozzarella Cheese:

Sprinkle mozzarella on top. Let it lightly melt for that perfectly cheesy finish.

One of my favorite parts of making this recipe is sprinkling the mozzarella at the end – it melts into such a gooey, irresistible topping! My mom used to do this same recipe, and it always reminds me of cozy evenings at home.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for best results. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have beef broth, water with a touch of Worcestershire sauce works in a pinch. Ground turkey is a lighter alternative to beef. For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and use vegetable broth along with plant-based crumbles.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this goulash with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread for a balanced, full-course meal. It’s also fantastic when topped with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

This goulash is the perfect go-to on busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you crave traditional flavors but need a dish that’s simple. Sharing this recipe with loved ones makes every meal special!

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of meat can be used in goulash?

You can use either ground beef or turkey for goulash. Both work well and provide delicious, savory flavors.

→ Can I substitute elbow macaroni with another pasta type?

Yes, you can use other short pasta types like penne or rotini, though elbow macaroni is traditional for goulash.

→ How do I ensure the macaroni cooks perfectly?

Be sure to simmer the dish covered and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The macaroni will absorb the flavors as it cooks.

→ What cheeses work best for the topping?

Mozzarella and cheddar are ideal for their melting properties and flavor, but you can also try Monterey Jack or parmesan.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Substitute ground turkey for beef, use whole-grain pasta, and reduce the cheese amount for a lighter version of goulash.