Description
Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of hearty family dinners. Unlike Hungarian goulash, this American-style version is a simple, budget-friendly dish made with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s savory, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
This recipe is cooked on the stovetop, then baked to let all the flavors meld together until hot, bubbly, and irresistible. Whether you grew up calling it goulash, American chop suey, or slumgullion, one thing is certain — it’s a timeless recipe that warms both the heart and the belly.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Families on a budget – A single pound of beef stretches into several servings.
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Busy weeknights – Simple pantry staples come together in under an hour.
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Beginner cooks – Easy enough for teens or anyone new to cooking.
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Comfort food lovers – If you enjoy hearty, old-fashioned meals, this recipe is for you.
Why it’s Great
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Budget-friendly – Uses affordable ingredients found in most pantries.
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Versatile – Adjust the seasoning and spice level to suit your taste.
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Family-approved – A dish everyone loves, from kids to adults.
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Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day after the flavors blend.
Ingredients
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½ lb macaroni
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1 ½ lbs ground beef
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1 large onion, diced
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Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce (to taste)
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2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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Tomato juice, as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and onion together until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
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Season with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste.
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Mash the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher and add them to the beef mixture along with the ketchup. Stir well.
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Add the cooked macaroni to the beef and tomato mixture, mixing until evenly combined.
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Taste and adjust seasonings. If you prefer a saucier dish, stir in some tomato juice until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve hot, or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes for an extra bubbly finish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or Dutch oven
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Large pot for pasta
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Colander for draining
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Potato masher
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Wooden spoon or spatula
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
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Reheating Tip: Add a splash of tomato juice or broth when reheating to keep it moist, since pasta tends to absorb liquid.
FAQ
1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, rotini, or penne also work well.
2. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
It can be as mild or as spicy as you like. Just adjust the chili powder and hot sauce to your preference.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a recipe — it’s a piece of home-cooked tradition that’s been passed down through generations. With its hearty beef, tender pasta, and tomato-rich sauce, this dish is perfect for busy families, budget-conscious cooks, and anyone craving a comforting meal. Whether you serve it straight from the skillet or baked until bubbly, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
