Old Fashioned Goulash is that nostalgic, one-pot comfort meal that feels like home in every bite. This recipe turns simple pantry staples into a warm, cheesy dinner that’s perfect for family nights, busy weeks, or anytime you want something that reminds you of Grandma’s kitchen.
Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese baked to perfection.
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes
1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook macaroni for 3 minutes less than the box directions, then drain.
3. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add ground beef and onions to the pan. Break beef apart, cooking for 6-7 minutes until browned. Drain any fat.
4. Mix in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix until combined.
6. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings.
7. Mix in cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese.
8. If your skillet is heat-safe, you can place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
9. If the skillet is not heat-safe, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish and bake.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days, or in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat in the microwave on 80% power in 30-second increments.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Category:Dinner
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
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Table of Contents
Old Fashioned Goulash: A Timeless Family Favorite
This Old Fashioned Goulash blends tender macaroni, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce with just the right touch of cheese. It’s cozy, affordable, and always hits the spot. Much like this Creamy Beef and Rotel Macaroni or the hearty Amish Hamburger Steak Bake, this casserole-style dish makes enough to feed a crowd with ease.
Old Fashioned Goulash: Simple, Savory, and So Satisfying
The magic of this Old Fashioned Goulash is in its simplicity. Just brown the beef, stir in tomatoes and seasoning, fold in pasta, and bake until everything melds together into bubbling, cheesy perfection. For a flavor boost, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or serve alongside a buttery side like these Bacon and Caramelized Onions.
Ingredients & Notes
You’ll need:
Elbow macaroni, ground beef, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Undercook the pasta slightly—it will finish in the oven without turning mushy.
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds richness, but mozzarella or Colby-Jack can work too.
How It Comes Together
Boil the macaroni for a few minutes less than the box suggests, then drain. In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onions until fully cooked, then add garlic and Worcestershire sauce for depth. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Mix in the pasta and shredded cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. The whole dish turns creamy, savory, and irresistible.
Pro Tips
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of sour cream before baking.
Want a little spice? Add red pepper flakes or chili powder.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens perfectly.
Pair with garlic toast or a simple salad for a full meal.
FAQ
Q1: Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash? A1: Yes! Cool it completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q2: Can I make this Old Fashioned Goulash without baking it? A2: Definitely. You can skip the oven step and serve it straight from the skillet for a stovetop version—it’ll still be rich and comforting.
Q3: What other meats work in this recipe? A3: Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even a mix of beef and pork work well for a flavor twist.
