Old Fashioned Hearty Goulash

This old fashioned goulash is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any weeknight dinner. It combines tender elbow macaroni with rich, savory ground beef and a robust tomato sauce that’s inviting and familiar. Topped with melted cheddar cheese it’s a simple one-dish meal that always hits the spot.

I first made this after craving a hearty meal that warmed me up from the inside out. It quickly became a family favorite that we look forward to regularly.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: cooks quickly and holds sauce well choose a good quality brand to prevent mushiness
• Ground beef: builds the hearty base go for 80/20 for a good balance of flavor and fat
• Onion and garlic: create the essential savory foundation for the sauce fresh garlic is key for bright flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: adds umami complexity feel free to use a gluten-free variety if needed
• Tomato sauce: provides a smooth rich texture pick one with no added sugar for a cleaner taste
• Petit diced tomatoes: add body and slight acidity choose a can with firm diced tomatoes to avoid excess liquid
• Italian seasoning: delivers classic herb flavor make sure your blend is fresh for the most vibrant taste
• Salt and black pepper: bring out all the layers of flavor freshly ground pepper works best
• Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully adding creaminess and a tangy finish opt for sharp cheddar for extra punch

Instructions

Preheat The Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit now so it’s ready when you finish assembling the dish

Cook The Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for about 3 minutes less than package recommendation. This keeps the pasta slightly firm, preventing overcooking in the bake. Drain well and set aside

Brown The Beef And Onions:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. Break the beef apart with your spatula and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the meat is nicely browned and the onions soften and turn translucent. Drain off any excess fat so the sauce does not become greasy

Add Garlic And Worcestershire Sauce:

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the Worcestershire sauce which brings a deep savoriness to the dish

Incorporate Tomato Sauces And Seasonings:

Pour in the tomato sauce and the canned diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed at this stage

Combine Pasta And Cheese Then Bake:

Stir the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese directly into the beef and tomato mixture. If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it straight to the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the goulash is bubbly and cheese is perfectly melted. If the skillet doesn’t go in the oven, shift the mixture to a casserole dish before baking

I have always been drawn to the way cheddar cheese melts into the pasta sauce giving that rich creamy layer on top. Years ago I made this for a family reunion and everyone went back for seconds like it was a favorite tradition coming alive again.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or sausage make excellent alternatives to beef. You can swap elbow macaroni for small shells or rotini if preferred. Pro tip I like to try smoked cheddar for a subtle smoky kick anytime I want to mix things up.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a side salad of crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Garlic bread makes a great accompaniment, soaking up any extra sauce. Pair with a cold beer for a cozy dinner vibe.

This goulash is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and easy preparation, making it a staple for any weeknight meal.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How long should the macaroni be cooked before baking?

Cook the elbow macaroni about 3 minutes less than the package suggests to keep it firm. It will finish cooking in the bake.

→ Can other types of cheese be used instead of cheddar?

Yes, cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work well for a milder melt, or a sharper cheese for more tang.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the mixture, then refrigerate before baking. This allows flavors to meld and saves time on cooking day.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey or sausage are good substitutes that bring their own unique flavors to the dish.

→ How can I add extra spice to this goulash?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while seasoning to introduce a gentle heat that complements the rich sauce.