Easy Old-Fashioned Goulash
Easy Old-Fashioned Goulash is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 462 calories per serving. Recipe by The Stay At Home Chef on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 44 min | Total: 1 hr 4 min
Cost: $15.82 total, $2.64 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20 lean; can substitute half sausage for richer flavor)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced; yellow or white works)
- 5 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1.5 teaspoons Chili Powder
- 0.5 teaspoons Paprika (Smoked or sweet)
- 3 cups Beef Broth (Low‑sodium preferred)
- 30 ounces Tomato Sauce (Pureed canned tomatoes)
- 30 ounces Diced Tomatoes (Undrained, include juices)
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional)
- 2 cups Elbow Noodles (Uncooked; can increase to 3 cups for less broth)
- 1.5 cups Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or cheddar, shredded)
Instructions
Brown the meat and onions
Heat the large pot over medium‑high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 7‑10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: medium‑high
Toast aromatics
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and paprika to the pot. Stir constantly and toast for 60‑90 seconds until fragrant.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium‑high
Add liquids and seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix well and bring to a simmer over high heat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: high
Develop flavor (optional)
If you have time, lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10‑15 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Time: PT12M
Temperature: medium
Cook the pasta
Add the uncooked elbow noodles (2 cups) to the pot. Stir to submerge and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture looks too dry.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: medium
Melt the cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium
Serve
Dish the goulash into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy while hot.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 462
- Protein
- 28g
- Carbohydrates
- 21g
- Fat
- 20g
- Fiber
- 4g
Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains dairy, Contains gluten, High protein
Allergens: Milk, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ground Beef: Ground turkey, Ground pork, Italian sausage
- Instead of Onion: Shallots, Leeks
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1 tsp)
- Instead of Chili Powder: Cayenne pepper + paprika
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika, Additional chili powder
- Instead of Beef Broth: Chicken broth, Vegetable broth, Bouillon cubes (1 per cup water)
- Instead of Tomato Sauce: Crushed tomatoes
- Instead of Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes (1 cup) plus extra broth
- Instead of Italian Seasoning: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme blend
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Onion Powder: Garlic powder (less flavor)
- Instead of Elbow Noodles: Penne, Rotini, Small shells
- Instead of Shredded Cheese: Monterey Jack, Provolone
Equipment Needed
- Large 6‑quart pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Colander (optional)
- Grater (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Browning the ground beef and onions for flavor
- Toasting garlic and spices without burning
- Ensuring enough liquid for the pasta to cook properly
- Cooking the pasta to al dente within the sauce
- Melting the cheese smoothly into the hot goulash
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra depth, use half beef and half smoked sausage.
- Low‑sodium broth lets you control the salt level better.
- A splash of red wine added with the broth adds richness.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Troubleshooting
The goulash is too watery after the pasta cooks.
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken.
The pasta is mushy.
Use less liquid next time or add the pasta a few minutes later; consider cooking the pasta al dente in a separate pot.
Cheese separates or looks grainy.
Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese and stir gently; if it separates, lower the heat and keep stirring.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat with a splash of broth.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the meat‑tomato sauce a day ahead and refrigerate; add pasta and cheese when ready to serve.
- Cook the elbow noodles separately, toss with a little oil, and store; combine with sauce just before finishing.
- Reheat leftovers over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Old‑Fashioned Goulash in American cuisine?
Old‑Fashioned Goulash is an American adaptation of the Hungarian stew, popularized in the early 20th century as a comforting, budget‑friendly one‑pot meal for working families. It blends European flavors with pantry staples like elbow pasta, making it a staple of Midwestern home cooking.
How does Old‑Fashioned Goulash differ from traditional Hungarian goulash?
Traditional Hungarian goulash is a soup‑like stew made with beef, paprika, and often served with dumplings or bread. The American version adds elbow noodles and cheese, creating a thicker, casserole‑like dish that is less soupy and more pasta‑centric.
What regional variations of goulash exist within the United States?
In the Midwest, the dish often includes ground beef, tomato sauce, and elbow noodles, while in the South you may find it made with sausage, bell peppers, and served over rice. Some New England versions add beans or use macaroni instead of elbow pasta.
On what occasions is Old‑Fashioned Goulash traditionally served in American households?
It is a go‑to comfort food for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings because it can be made quickly in one pot and feeds a crowd. It’s also popular for game‑day meals and budget‑friendly holiday leftovers.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Old‑Fashioned Goulash, and what are acceptable substitutes?
Key ingredients are ground beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow noodles, and shredded cheese. Substitutes include ground turkey or sausage for the meat, chicken broth for beef broth, and any short pasta shape in place of elbow noodles.
What other American comfort‑food dishes pair well with Old‑Fashioned Goulash?
Serve it alongside a simple green salad, crusty garlic bread, or steamed green beans. A side of coleslaw or pickles adds a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy goulash.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Old‑Fashioned Goulash?
Common errors include not browning the meat fully, which reduces flavor; burning the garlic and spices; using too much liquid so the pasta becomes mushy; and adding cheese over high heat, which can cause it to separate.
Why does this recipe toast the garlic and spices for only 60‑90 seconds instead of longer?
A brief toast releases the aromatic oils without scorching the garlic. Over‑toasting can turn garlic bitter and mute the subtle heat of the chili powder and paprika, affecting the overall flavor balance.
Can I make Old‑Fashioned Goulash ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the meat‑tomato base a day ahead and refrigerate. Add the pasta and cheese just before serving, or reheat the whole dish with a splash of broth. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
What does the YouTube channel The Stay At Home Chef specialize in?
The Stay At Home Chef focuses on easy, family‑friendly recipes that can be made with everyday pantry ingredients and minimal equipment. The channel emphasizes one‑pot meals, quick weeknight dinners, and step‑by‑step video tutorials for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does The Stay At Home Chef’s approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
The Stay At Home Chef prioritizes simplicity and speed, often using a single pot or pan to reduce cleanup. Unlike many channels that showcase elaborate plating, this channel delivers straightforward, hearty dishes that are designed for real families with busy schedules.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
