Old Fashioned Goulash – A One-Pot Meal the Whole Family Will Love

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, featuring a rich tomato sauce, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta. This nostalgic dish is reminiscent of family dinners and home-cooked meals that warm the soul. It’s a simple, one-pot wonder that is both satisfying and easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty & Satisfying – A filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Classic Comfort Food – A recipe that evokes the warmth and familiarity of home.
One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
Easy to Customize – Add your favorite veggies or swap in different proteins for variety.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni pasta
• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add the Sauces and Seasonings:

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta:

Once the sauce is simmering, add the elbow macaroni. Stir to combine, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add more broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Serve:

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is thickened, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310
• Carbs: 33g
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g

Tips for Success

• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Cheese: If you love cheese, sprinkle extra cheddar on top for more richness, but keep in mind that it will add extra calories.
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative to beef.
• Make-Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why This Recipe Works

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and budget-friendly. The lean ground beef provides protein, while the pasta and tomatoes give it the comfort-food texture everyone loves. This dish is full of savory spices, and the optional cheese topping adds richness without overwhelming the meal.

There’s something so comforting about a warm, filling bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash. With simple ingredients and easy prep, this dish brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re looking for a classic family dinner or a hearty meal to enjoy throughout the week, this goulash will quickly become a favorite.