Grandma's American Goulash

Craving a taste of classic American comfort food? Look no further than this incredibly satisfying and easy-to-make Old Fashioned Goulash recipe. This hearty one-pot marvel brings together succulent ground beef, tender macaroni pasta, sweet onions, and rich canned tomatoes in a symphony of flavors that evoke cherished memories of home-cooked meals. It’s the ultimate weeknight hero, requiring minimal effort and ready to delight your family in just about 30 minutes. Forget fussy ingredients or complicated techniques; this American goulash is pure, unadulterated comfort at its finest, a dish so simple yet profoundly delicious, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.

A truly complete meal on its own, homemade goulash also shines alongside simple, complementary sides. Imagine fluffy Homemade Crescent Rolls, a perfectly cooked Steakhouse Style Baked Potato, or a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad to balance the richness. And when it comes to cheese, we say, don’t hold back! A generous sprinkle of your favorite shredded cheese takes this dish from great to absolutely irresistible.

A bowl of steaming Old Fashioned Beef Goulash, showcasing the rich tomato sauce, ground beef, and macaroni pasta, ready to be served. Ideal for an easy comfort food meal. — Enjoying a classic American Goulash with macaroni and beef.

Contents

The Heartwarming History of Old Fashioned American Goulash

When we talk about “goulash” in the United States, we’re usually referring to a distinct dish that has evolved far from its Central European roots. Traditional Hungarian goulash, the original inspiration, is more akin to a rich, paprika-laden stew, brimming with tender chunks of slow-cooked meat and hearty vegetables. It’s a dish with a deep history, reflecting the robust culinary traditions of Hungary, often served with small dumplings or simply crusty bread, without the macaroni that defines its American counterpart.

However, the Old Fashioned American Goulash you’re likely familiar with is a uniquely American creation, born out of a desire for economical, filling, and straightforward meals, particularly after World War II. This period saw a rise in convenience foods and simplified cooking methods, which American goulash perfectly embodies. Depending on where you grew up across the United States, this beloved casserole-like dish goes by many endearing names. Perhaps you know it as “noodle mixture,” “American chop suey” in New England, or even “slumgullion” in some Midwestern states. These regional monikers highlight its widespread appeal and how deeply embedded it has become in American home cooking, often customized by family cooks over generations.

Regardless of what label you attach to it, American goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary legacy. It’s one of those cherished family recipes that has been lovingly passed down through generations, and for very good reason! Its enduring popularity stems from its use of simple, affordable, and incredibly hearty ingredients that appeal to everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. Furthermore, its inherent simplicity makes it just as easy to whip up a large batch to feed a crowd for a potluck or family gathering as it is to prepare a smaller portion for a cozy family dinner. This adaptability makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, large gatherings, or anytime you need a comforting and satisfying meal that requires minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Goulash Recipe

This Old Fashioned American Goulash isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

Effortlessly Simple: With straightforward steps and common ingredients found in any pantry, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results without stress.
One-Pot Wonder: The beauty of this dish lies in its single-pot preparation for the sauce and beef, meaning minimal cleanup and more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
Budget-Friendly: Made with economical staples like ground beef, affordable pasta, and canned tomatoes, it’s incredibly kind to your wallet, making it a smart choice for feeding a family.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its universally loved savory and tangy flavors make it an undeniable hit with both kids and adults, perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or game nights.
Highly Customizable: This recipe serves as an excellent base for creativity. Easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables, different cheeses, or a touch of spice to suit any palate or dietary preference.
Comfort Food Champion: Warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this goulash is the ultimate dish to chase away the chill on a cold evening or simply to indulge in pure, nostalgic deliciousness.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With American Goulash

Old-fashioned American goulash is a complete meal on its own, offering a wonderful balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables within its savory sauce. However, its rich and comforting profile truly shines when accompanied by simple, fresh sides that offer a textural or flavor contrast. These pairings can elevate your goulash experience and round out the meal beautifully:

Homemade Crescent Rolls: Soft, buttery, and slightly flaky crescent rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious tomato-beef sauce, adding a delightful touch of indulgence.
Pull Apart Garlic Bread: The savory aroma and crisp, garlicky texture of pull-apart bread make it an ideal companion for a hearty pasta dish, adding an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Classic White Bread: Simple slices of fresh, homemade white bread are wonderfully comforting and versatile, offering a neutral palate cleanser between bites of rich goulash.
Steakhouse Style Baked Potato: A fluffy baked potato provides a great, absorbent canvas for butter, sour cream, chives, or even some of the extra goulash sauce, adding another layer of heartiness.
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad: A light, fresh salad bursting with vibrant colors and crisp textures offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the goulash, balancing the meal beautifully.
Crisp Green Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness of the goulash and adds a welcome crunch, making the meal feel lighter.
Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli: Quick-steamed vegetables provide essential nutrients, a vibrant color contrast, and a healthy component without much fuss, making them excellent easy additions.

Close-up of Best American Goulash recipe with rich beef and macaroni, generously topped with shredded cheese and fresh basil, showing its delicious texture. — A generous serving of American Chop Suey, ready to satisfy any craving for classic comfort.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Goulash

Crafting the ultimate Old Fashioned American Goulash starts with selecting quality ingredients that work harmoniously to build its robust flavor and satisfying texture. Each component plays a vital role in transforming simple staples into a beloved comfort meal. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: The undisputed champion for classic American goulash is elbow macaroni. Its small, curved shape is perfect for catching and holding the savory sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. However, feel free to experiment with other small, hearty pasta shapes like cavatappi (corkscrew pasta), ditalini, or even medium shells. For a slightly different twist, some traditional variations incorporate egg noodles, offering a softer, more delicate bite.
Ground Beef: We typically recommend using a leaner ground beef (such as 90/10 or 85/15) to minimize the amount of fat needing to be drained, resulting in a cleaner sauce. However, any kind of ground beef will work beautifully. If you opt for a fattier cut (like 80/20), simply ensure you thoroughly drain any excess grease after browning. For a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing much flavor, ground turkey or even ground chicken can be excellent substitutes, especially when seasoned generously.
Onion: Finely diced yellow or white onions are essential aromatics. As they sauté with the beef, they soften and release their natural sugars, providing a foundational layer of savory-sweet flavor to the meat and tomato sauce. Their contribution is key to the goulash’s depth.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an irresistible, pungent depth and aromatic complexity that is absolutely paramount to the goulash’s overall taste profile. While garlic powder is used for an additional boost, fresh garlic truly makes a significant difference in the vibrancy of the flavor.
Tomato Sauce: This forms the rich, tangy backbone of your goulash sauce. Any good quality canned tomato sauce (e.g., plain, unseasoned) will do the trick. For an extra layer of herbaceous flavor, you could also substitute marinara sauce, or use a blend of tomato puree for a thicker, smoother consistency.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add both texture and a burst of fresh, bright tomato flavor to the sauce. They break down slightly during simmering, contributing to the hearty consistency of the goulash. For a subtle smoky note, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Italian Seasoning: This convenient blend of dried herbs (typically oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram) is a secret weapon for infusing the goulash with a classic, well-rounded herbaceousness that is reminiscent of traditional Italian-American comfort food. You’ll find it readily in the spice section of any grocery store.
Onion Powder & Garlic Salt: While fresh aromatics are crucial, these powdered forms provide a consistent and pervasive layer of flavor, boosting the taste profile of the goulash. They ensure that every bite is seasoned perfectly and complement the fresh onion and garlic beautifully.
Black Pepper: A simple yet effective seasoning, freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and enhances the overall savory notes of the goulash, tying all the flavors together.
Baking Soda: A crucial, often overlooked ingredient! A tiny pinch of baking soda is added to help neutralize and reduce the acidity of the canned tomatoes. This results in a smoother, less harsh sauce that is incredibly palatable and can even help prevent heartburn for some individuals.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that delightful, gooey, melty texture and mild creaminess that makes American goulash so incredibly comforting and appealing. You can purchase pre-shredded cheese for convenience or shred your own for a fresher melt. Shredded cheddar cheese is also a popular and delicious substitute, offering a sharper flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, salty, and wonderfully umami finish when sprinkled generously over each serving. It adds a sophisticated layer of flavor that complements the robust beef and tomato.
Basil: Fresh basil, thinly sliced or chiffonaded, makes a vibrant and aromatic garnish. Its peppery, sweet notes beautifully complement the tomato and beef, adding a fresh burst of flavor just before serving. Fresh parsley is also an excellent substitute for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Creating this delicious, hearty American goulash is incredibly simple and surprisingly quick, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights. Follow these easy steps for a comforting dish that comes together in under an hour, yielding a deeply satisfying flavor profile that your whole family will adore:

Cook the Pasta to Perfection: Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage seasons the pasta from within. Add your chosen pasta, typically elbow macaroni or cavatappi, and cook according to the package directions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This is crucial for avoiding mushy pasta in the final dish. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as the starches clinging to it will help the sauce adhere better.
Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: While your pasta is cooking, heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, the finely diced onion, and the minced garlic to the hot pan. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, break up the ground beef into small, even crumbles. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink throughout. It’s important to brown the beef well to develop rich flavor. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet for a less greasy and more flavorful result.
Simmer the Flavorful Sauce: After the beef is cooked and drained, it’s time to build the rich tomato sauce. To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, Italian seasonings, onion powder, garlic salt, black pepper, and the tiny but mighty pinch of baking soda. Stir all the ingredients vigorously to combine them thoroughly, ensuring everything is well incorporated. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow the sauce to cook, stirring gently from time to time, for approximately 5 minutes. This simmering period is essential as it allows all the wonderful flavors to meld and deepen, creating a truly harmonious and robust sauce.
Combine, Melt Cheese, and Serve: Finally, add the reserved cooked pasta to the rich beef and tomato mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that every strand of pasta is evenly coated with the savory, aromatic sauce. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor and warm through completely. Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it’s fully melted and wonderfully incorporated, creating a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the goulash. To serve this ultimate comfort food, spoon generous portions into individual bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of thinly sliced fresh basil for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve immediately and savor every comforting bite!

Frequently Asked Questions About American Goulash

What’s the difference between American Goulash and Traditional Hungarian Goulash?

While both American Goulash and traditional Hungarian Goulash are hearty dishes, they are quite distinct in their ingredients, preparation, and final form. Traditional Hungarian Goulash is a rich, slow-cooked beef stew, deeply characterized by large chunks of beef, various vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a generous, defining use of paprika as its primary spice. It’s often served without pasta or with a small dumpling (nokedli) on the side. American Goulash, on the other hand, is a much quicker, one-pot meal typically made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs, onion, and garlic. It’s designed to be a complete meal in one pot, emphasizing convenience and familiar, robust flavors, rather than a long stewing process.

Can I Freeze Old-Fashioned Goulash?

Yes, you absolutely can freeze American goulash, but for the very best texture, it’s highly recommended to freeze the beef and tomato sauce mixture *before* adding the cooked pasta. When pasta is frozen and then reheated after being fully cooked, it tends to absorb too much moisture and become quite mushy, compromising the overall dish. To freeze properly, allow the beef mixture to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored safely in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen goulash, simply thaw the beef mixture in the refrigerator overnight. While reheating the thawed beef mixture (which you can do either in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until thoroughly hot), cook fresh pasta separately according to package directions. Once both components are hot, combine them in the pot, stir in your cheeses, add any desired fresh garnishes like basil or parsley, and serve immediately. This method ensures your pasta retains its ideal al dente texture.

What Else Can You Add To Goulash for Customization?

American goulash is wonderfully versatile and can be easily customized to your liking, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic additions and variations:

For Extra Creaminess: To achieve a richer, creamier sauce, stir in about a cup of sour cream, cream cheese, or a splash of heavy cream at the very end of cooking, just after removing the skillet from the heat.
For a More Stew-Like Consistency: If you prefer a looser, more stew-like goulash, add an additional 1-2 cups of beef broth or even vegetable broth along with the canned tomatoes during the simmering phase.
Boost with Extra Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional content and add more texture and flavor with extra veggies. Try adding corn, peas, finely diced carrots (sauté them with the onions for tenderness), bell peppers (red, green, or yellow sautéed with the onion), or even sliced mushrooms during the simmering process.
Add Beans for Protein & Heartiness: For an added protein punch and increased heartiness, incorporate a can of drained and rinsed black beans, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), or kidney beans during the simmering phase. They blend beautifully with the tomato and beef flavors.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper, a teaspoon of chili powder, or a dash of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.
Umami Boost: A few shakes of Worcestershire sauce can add a wonderful savory, umami depth that complements the beef exceptionally well. You might also try a splash of soy sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone, Colby Jack, or a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.

Old Fashioned American Goulash recipe with ground beef and macaroni, a comforting one-pot meal.

Rating: 3.30 from 10 votes

Classic Old Fashioned American Goulash

Author:
The Carefree Kitchen

This recipe for old fashioned goulash is a hearty one-pot classic, full of beef, macaroni pasta, onions and canned tomatoes. Super easy to make, and ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is American comfort food at its finest.

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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Yields:

12 people

Ingredients

2 pounds cavatappi pasta, or large elbow macaroni
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons basil, thinly sliced for garnish

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to boil, add a tablespoon of salt and cook pasta according to the directions on the package. Once cooked, strain and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic and saute, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, or about 7-10 minutes.
Once the beef is cooked, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasonings, onion powder, garlic salt, pepper, and baking soda. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring gently, for about 5 minutes.
Add the reserved cooked pasta to the beef and tomato mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in the mozzarella cheese, mixing well. To serve, top each bowl with Parmesan cheese and thinly sliced basil. Enjoy!

Notes

Storing instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

Freezing: If you plan to freeze, do not add the noodles. Freeze the beef and tomato mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the mixture and cook fresh pasta separately while reheating the beef mixture. Combine, add cheeses, and serve.

Nutrition

Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.

Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
American

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More One-Pot Wonders and Easy Weeknight Meals You’ll Adore!

If you’re a fan of simple, flavorful, and minimal-cleanup dinners like our Old Fashioned American Goulash, then you’re in for a treat! We understand the irresistible appeal of a delicious meal that doesn’t require a mountain of pots and pans and is quick enough for any busy evening. Here are some more of our favorite one-pot recipes and easy weeknight solutions that are sure to become cherished family favorites:

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Easy Taco Soup: All the vibrant and zesty flavors of your favorite tacos captured in a comforting, customizable soup, ready in a single pot.
Easy Lasagna Soup: Enjoy the delicious, layered flavors of classic lasagna in a convenient and quick soup form, perfect for a cozy meal without the fuss.
Chicken Curry Thai Soup: A flavorful and aromatic soup that effortlessly transports your taste buds to Thailand with its rich coconut milk and exotic spices.
Quick Beef Chili: A hearty and satisfying chili, bursting with robust flavors and protein, perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd.
Looking for more culinary inspiration? Explore our extensive collection of Beef Recipes or discover even more Easy Dinner Recipes designed specifically for busy schedules and maximum deliciousness!

This Old-Fashioned American Goulash truly stands out as a champion of hearty, uncomplicated home cooking. Packed with savory ground beef, robust tomatoes, flavorful onions, and perfectly cooked macaroni pasta, it’s a dish that promises both immense satisfaction and remarkable ease. Requiring just about 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe delivers the quintessential American comfort food experience straight to your dinner table, making weeknight meals a breeze. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for any occasion when you need something delicious, quick, and genuinely comforting to nourish body and soul.