Oh yes—Old-Fashioned Goulash is that cozy, no-fuss comfort food that hits all the right notes 🍲❤️. Think tender beef, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce simmered to perfection.
Old-Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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1 lb ground beef (or stew meat for chunkier texture)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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1–2 cups beef broth
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1–2 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
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1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
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Optional: sliced bell peppers or mushrooms
How to Make It
1. Brown the Meat
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Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned.
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Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies
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Add onion and garlic to the meat.
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Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes & Seasoning
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Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
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Add dry pasta to the sauce.
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Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
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Add more broth if needed.
5. Optional Cheese Finish
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top before serving.
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Cover for a few minutes to melt.
Tips & Variations
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Chunky version: Use beef stew meat instead of ground beef; simmer 1–1.5 hours before adding pasta.
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Veggie boost: Add carrots, peas, or green beans toward the end.
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Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
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Spice kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne or hot paprika.
If you want, I can also give a “30-minute shortcut version” that keeps all the classic goulash flavor but cooks fast for busy weeknights.