Old-fashioned goulash is the perfect dish when you’re craving hearty comfort food with a nostalgic touch. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground meat, savory spices, and creamy cheese for a rich and satisfying meal that feeds a crowd. It’s an all-time favorite for family dinners or potluck gatherings, offering a balance of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages.
This recipe is simple to customize. Prefer a lighter option? Swap ground beef for ground turkey. Want to add more veggies? Toss in bell peppers or mushrooms. The addition of elbow macaroni gives the dish its signature texture, soaking up the rich tomato-based sauce beautifully. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this goulash recipe promises ease, deliciousness, and a touch of nostalgia.
Cooking everything in one pot saves on cleanup and enhances the flavors as they meld together over time. Plus, the leftovers are just as delightful, making it a meal-prep dream. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this classic dish that’s sure to become a family staple.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2½ cups water
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp seasoned salt
- ½ tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp Adobo seasoning
- 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
- 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the Meat
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground meat until half-cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Add Aromatics
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced onion, and olive oil. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent.
- Build the Base
- Add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, Adobo seasoning, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium, cover, and let the mixture cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Pasta
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring until fully incorporated into the sauce. Cover again and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Remove Bay Leaves
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- Add the Cheese
- Mix in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed. Sprinkle the shredded Mozzarella cheese on top right before serving for a creamy finish.
- Serve
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Nutritional Insights
This goulash is rich in protein from the ground meat and cheese, while the elbow macaroni provides carbohydrates for energy. The tomatoes and onions add essential vitamins, and the olive oil contributes healthy fats. For a lighter option, consider using lean ground turkey, whole-grain pasta, or low-fat cheese.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out for you! Did you make any tweaks or add your own special touch? Sharing your experience helps others and spreads the joy of cooking. Don’t forget to comment below and share this classic recipe with your friends and family. Let’s keep the love for old-fashioned goulash alive!
