Hearty Old Fashioned American Goulash Recipe: A Timeless Comfort Food Classic

Dive into a bowl of pure nostalgia with this incredible old fashioned goulash recipe. Far from its Hungarian cousin, American goulash is a beloved classic that evokes cherished childhood memories for many. This dish is the epitome of comfort food: rich, deeply savory, and incredibly satisfying. Featuring tender ground beef simmered in a robust tomato sauce, mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and finished with a blanket of melty cheddar cheese, it’s a meal that truly warms the soul. Best of all, this hearty, perfectly seasoned recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a comforting weeknight dinner that the whole family will adore.

Growing up, old fashioned goulash was a treasured weekly staple in our home. The comforting aroma of simmering beef and tomatoes instantly signaled that a cozy, fulfilling meal was on its way. Today, as an adult, it continues to hold a special place on my dinner table, offering that same delightful feeling of warmth and contentment. The magic truly happens when hearty ground beef is cooked down in an intensely flavorful sauce, brimming with ripe tomatoes, sweet onions, aromatic garlic, a hint of umami from Worcestershire sauce, and a thoughtful blend of Italian spices. The addition of creamy, melty cheddar cheese binds everything together, adding a luxurious richness and irresistible texture, all perfectly complemented by the familiar bite of tender elbow macaroni.

Every spoonful of this classic American goulash recipe transports me back to simpler times, reminding me of joyful family gatherings and comforting evenings around the kitchen table. It’s a dish where every component—the savory beef, tangy tomatoes, perfectly cooked macaroni, and gooey cheese—harmonizes beautifully to create a perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying flavor profile. Beyond its nostalgic appeal, this goulash is incredibly practical for modern life. Its quick 45-minute preparation time makes it an absolute lifesaver for busy weekdays when you need a substantial, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s truly a testament to the power of simple ingredients creating something extraordinary.

Why This Classic American Goulash Will Become Your New Family Favorite

This rich and beefy goulash isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl that promises to become a regular fixture in your home. Here are even more reasons why you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation:

• Effortlessly Simple: Don’t let the depth of flavor fool you – this recipe is incredibly straightforward to make. With minimal steps and a total cook time of just 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Plus, it primarily utilizes common pantry and fridge staples, meaning you probably have most of the ingredients on hand already, eliminating the need for special grocery trips.
• Perfect for Meal Prep & Delicious Leftovers: Goulash is one of those fantastic dishes that often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen beautifully. This recipe stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator for quick, easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Furthermore, it’s also freezer-friendly, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. Prepare a larger quantity, and you’ll have delicious, homemade comfort food ready whenever cravings strike, saving you valuable time and effort later in the week.
• Wholesome Comfort Food: While many comfort foods can be heavy, this goulash offers satisfying richness without being overly indulgent. It’s packed with high-quality protein from the lean ground beef and a modest amount of cheddar cheese, which helps keep you feeling full and energized. The generous inclusion of tomatoes provides essential vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. It’s a comforting meal you can genuinely feel good about serving to your family, knowing it’s both incredibly delicious and relatively balanced.
• Incredibly Versatile: While the classic recipe as presented is perfect, American goulash is wonderfully adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. You can easily adjust the spices, incorporate additional vegetables, or even swap out pasta types. This flexibility ensures it can cater to everyone in your household, keeping dinner exciting and never dull.
• A Guaranteed Family-Friendly Hit: The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce is almost universally loved, even by the pickiest eaters. This goulash is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike, guaranteeing clean plates and happy faces around the dinner table. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites after a long day.

Essential Ingredients for Your Hearty Goulash

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step to creating this incredible comfort meal. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to make this rich beef goulash. For precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page, ensuring you have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience.

• Elbow Macaroni: This is the iconic pasta shape for American goulash, perfectly designed to capture the savory sauce in its curves and hollows. While traditional, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure they are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during the baking process.
• Ground Beef: We highly recommend using a lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to get excellent flavor without excessive grease. The beef forms the hearty foundation of this dish, providing a robust, savory flavor and satisfying texture that defines goulash.
• Onion: A medium yellow onion is my personal preference for this recipe, offering a balanced sweetness and pungency when cooked down, which forms a fantastic aromatic base. Red or white onions can also be used; white onions will offer a sharper flavor, while red onions tend to be slightly sweeter and milder after sautéing. Ensure it’s finely chopped for even distribution and optimal melding of flavors.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is an absolute non-negotiable for that essential aromatic kick and depth of flavor. Three cloves offer a robust taste, but feel free to adjust to your personal preference – a little more won’t hurt if you’re a garlic lover!
• Worcestershire Sauce: This is the secret weapon that adds a profound depth of umami and a subtle tang, elevating the entire dish. It makes the beef and tomato sauce incredibly rich and complex, distinguishing it from a simple pasta sauce. Don’t skip this ingredient for the best results!
• Canned Tomato Sauce: This forms the smooth, rich foundation of our goulash sauce, providing a concentrated tomato flavor. Choose a good quality plain tomato sauce without added herbs or sugar, as we’ll be adding our own seasoning blend.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add texture and a fresh, bright tomato flavor to the sauce. Petite diced tomatoes are ideal as they blend more seamlessly into the dish without being overly chunky, but regular diced tomatoes work perfectly fine and can offer a more rustic texture.
• Italian Seasoning: A convenient and beloved blend of classic Mediterranean herbs that brings warmth and aromatic complexity to the sauce. See the dedicated section below for more details on this essential spice blend and how to create your own if needed.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning the meat, the pasta water, and the overall sauce. Start with the recommended amount and remember to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking before the final bake.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a vibrant, pungent heat that beautifully complements the other flavors in the dish. It truly makes a significant difference compared to pre-ground pepper in terms of aroma and taste.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredding your own block of cheddar cheese will always yield the best melt and flavor, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture. However, for sheer convenience, pre-shredded cheddar works perfectly well. It adds a creamy, tangy, and utterly comforting finish to the goulash.

Understanding Italian Seasoning: Your Herb Blend Guide

Italian seasoning is a widely available and popular spice blend found in almost any grocery store aisle. Typically, it’s a harmonious mix of dried basil, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and oregano, providing a balanced and aromatic profile. Some spice brands might include additional herbs like sage or a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. If you don’t have a pre-made blend, you can easily create your own by combining these individual dried herbs in roughly equal parts. This blend is crucial for imparting that classic, comforting herbaceous flavor profile that is characteristic of American goulash, tying all the savory elements together.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Simple, Comforting Goulash

Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to bring this incredibly satisfying and comforting goulash to life in just about 45 minutes. Efficiency meets deliciousness for a perfect family meal!

• Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready for the final baking step, which melts the cheese and allows the flavors to meld. Simultaneously, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for precisely 3 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. This ‘al dente’ approach is crucial as it prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the subsequent baking stage, allowing it to perfectly absorb more of the flavorful sauce without losing its bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
• Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions. In a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pan for even heating), heat it over high heat. Add the ground beef and the finely chopped onions. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, break the meat apart as it cooks, ensuring no large clumps remain. Stir frequently until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions have softened and become translucent, which typically takes about 6-7 minutes. Achieving good browning here is crucial for developing maximum flavor through the Maillard reaction. Once done, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy goulash, leaving just enough for flavor.
• Step 3: Infuse with Garlic. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef and onions. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be extra careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter and affect the entire dish’s flavor.
• Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (petite diced if possible for better texture), canned tomato sauce, and the Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together well, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all that rich flavor into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to start blending.
• Step 5: Season the Sauce. Add the Italian seasoning, the measured salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the simmering sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all the spices evenly. At this stage, it’s highly recommended to taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Some people prefer a little more salt, others a bit more Italian seasoning – this is your chance to tailor it to your palate for a perfectly personalized dish.
• Step 6: Incorporate Pasta and Cheese. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the partially cooked elbow macaroni and the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly distributed and the cheese begins to melt into the warm sauce. This step brings all the elements together into the cohesive goulash mixture.
• Step 7: Bake to Perfection. If your skillet is indeed oven-safe, simply transfer it directly to the preheated oven. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, carefully spoon the goulash mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the goulash is bubbling around the edges, indicating it’s heated through, and the cheese on top is fully melted, golden, and deliciously gooey. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting classic!

Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Beefy Goulash

Achieving goulash perfection is surprisingly easy with these simple yet effective tricks and tips. Incorporate them into your cooking process for an even more flavorful and satisfying dish:

• Always Salt Your Pasta Water Generously: This seemingly small step makes a monumental difference in the overall flavor of your pasta. Adding a generous amount of salt to the boiling water (it should taste like the ocean) ensures that the macaroni itself is seasoned from the inside out. This foundational seasoning prevents bland pasta and allows it to complement the sauce perfectly, rather than relying solely on the sauce for flavor.
• Taste and Adjust Seasonings as You Go: When you add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce, start with the recommended amounts in the recipe. Then, before mixing in the pasta and cheese, take a small taste of the sauce. This is your crucial chance to fine-tune the flavors to your exact preference. Do you prefer more pronounced herb notes? Add a pinch more Italian seasoning. Need a bolder flavor? A little extra salt or even a dash of hot sauce can transform it. Adjust to your personal palate for a truly customized and delicious dish.
• Brown the Beef Thoroughly for Depth: Don’t rush this step at all! Developing a rich, deep brown crust on your ground beef is absolutely key to unlocking its deepest, most savory flavors through the Maillard reaction. Cook the beef until it’s deeply browned, not just gray. This extra color and caramelized surface translate directly into a significantly more flavorful and complex goulash, adding an important layer of savory goodness.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta (Initially): Since the goulash finishes baking in the oven, the pasta will continue to cook and absorb liquid from the sauce. Cooking the macaroni 3 minutes less than the package directions ensures it finishes cooking to a perfect al dente texture in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy or overcooked in the final dish.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese Makes a Difference: While pre-shredded cheddar is undeniably convenient, a block of cheese that you shred yourself will always yield the best melt and superior flavor. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can interfere with a smooth, creamy melt and sometimes affect the overall texture.
• Allow it to Rest Briefly: After removing the goulash from the oven, resist the urge to immediately dig in. Let the goulash rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the flavors to meld even further and the sauce to thicken slightly, resulting in a more cohesive, well-integrated, and ultimately more delicious dish.
• Deglaze for Extra Flavor: After browning the beef, if there are browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of your pan, add a splash of water, beef broth, or even red wine (if desired) and scrape them up with your spoon. These bits are pure flavor and will greatly enhance your sauce.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Hearty Goulash

This classic comfort dish truly shines brightest when served alongside complementary sides. Here are some of my family’s favorite pairings for a complete and utterly satisfying meal. In our household, buttered saltine crackers were always an absolute must – perfect for scooping up every last drop of that savory sauce and adding a delightful crunch!

• Crisp Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and fresh greens offer a refreshing and zesty contrast to the rich, hearty goulash.
• Simple Tossed Salad: A light green salad with a bright vinaigrette is always a welcome addition, providing freshness and helping to cut through the richness of the main dish.
• Warm Garlic Knots: Soft, pillowy, and intensely garlicky bread is absolutely perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of the savory tomato sauce.
• Rosemary Focaccia: Its aromatic herbs and chewy, olive oil-infused texture make it an excellent, flavorful bread for scooping or enjoying alongside.
• Fluffy Cornbread: A Southern classic that provides a wonderful crumbly texture and a slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory goulash.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adds a touch of delightful bitterness and earthy flavor, especially when roasted with bacon and balsamic, that pairs wonderfully with the savory goulash.
• Roasted Asparagus: A simple, elegant green vegetable that provides a pop of color and a fresh, tender bite, balancing the richness of the meal.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Goulash

One of the best things about American goulash is its incredible flexibility. The core recipe is fantastic, but feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to make the dish uniquely yours and cater to different tastes or ingredients you have on hand:

• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and add extra layers of texture by stirring in finely diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), shredded carrots, frozen peas or corn, or sliced mushrooms when you sauté the onions. You could also add a handful of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking, just before the baking step, allowing it to wilt into the hot goulash.
• Experiment with Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is the traditional and beloved choice, don’t hesitate to try mixing it up! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses like shredded mozzarella and provolone can add a new dimension of flavor and melt beautifully. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving is always a good idea for an extra cheesy boost.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, American goulash provides a wonderful base for customization. Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning, or incorporate a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the tomato mixture for an extra kick that awakens the palate.
• Alternative Meats: While ground beef is classic, other ground meats can be used for a slightly different take or a lighter version. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted; just be sure to brown it well and season generously, as poultry is often milder in flavor. Ground pork or a mix of ground beef and pork would also be delicious and add richness.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have elbow macaroni, or simply prefer something different, small shells, ditalini, rotini, or even penne can work wonderfully. Just remember to undercook them slightly before adding them to the sauce to account for the final baking time. For a gluten-free option, use your preferred brand of gluten-free pasta.
• Introduce a Smoky Flavor: A tiny dash of liquid smoke (used sparingly!) or a generous pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle, intriguing smoky depth to the sauce, especially if you enjoy that flavor profile and want to add another layer of complexity.
• Sweetness Balance: If your tomatoes are particularly acidic, a pinch of sugar (about half a teaspoon) can help balance the flavors of the sauce without making it overtly sweet.

Storing and Reheating Your Hearty Old Fashioned Goulash

This recipe is not only delicious freshly made but also incredibly convenient for meal prep and enjoying later. Proper storage ensures your goulash remains fresh, flavorful, and ready for a quick and satisfying meal.

• Refrigerator Storage: Allow any leftover goulash to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and maintain food safety. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it promptly in the refrigerator. Stored correctly, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. You’ll often find that the flavors deepen and meld even more overnight, making for an even more enjoyable meal the next day!
• Reheating in the Microwave: For individual portions, transfer the desired amount of goulash to a microwave-safe dish. Reheat on 80% power in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly in between each interval, until it is heated evenly and thoroughly through. If the goulash seems a bit dry or too thick after refrigeration, adding a tablespoon or two of water or beef broth before reheating can help rehydrate the sauce and bring it back to a perfect consistency.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: For larger portions or a more even reheat, transfer the goulash to a saucepan or Dutch oven. Add a splash of water or beef broth (approximately 1/4 cup per 2-3 servings) to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is thoroughly warmed through. Be careful not to boil vigorously, as this can overcook the pasta and alter its texture.

Can You Freeze This American Goulash Recipe? Absolutely!

Yes, this old fashioned goulash freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for future meal solutions, whether you’re planning ahead or simply want to save leftovers. To freeze and enjoy later, follow these simple guidelines:

• Cool Completely Before Freezing: It is paramount that the goulash is entirely cooled to room temperature before you attempt to freeze it. Freezing warm food can lower the temperature of your freezer, affect other frozen items, and lead to excessive ice crystals forming in the goulash, which can compromise its texture upon thawing.
• Proper Portioning: For convenience, divide the goulash into individual or family-sized portions. Use freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags designed for food storage. If using freezer bags, gently press out as much air as possible before sealing and flatten them; this saves valuable freezer space and allows for quicker thawing later.
• Freezer Lifespan: Properly stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag, goulash can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without any significant loss of quality or flavor. Make sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen goulash, transfer the container or bag to the refrigerator to defrost overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture of the ingredients. Once completely thawed, reheat it using the stovetop or microwave methods described in the “Storing and Reheating” section above. You will almost certainly need to add a little extra liquid (water or beef broth) during reheating to help rehydrate the sauce and achieve the desired consistency, as pasta tends to absorb more liquid when frozen and thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Goulash

What is the main difference between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?

The difference is quite significant! Hungarian Goulash is traditionally a rich, stew-like dish featuring larger chunks of beef, often seasoned heavily with paprika, and typically served with noodles or potatoes on the side. American Goulash, on the other hand, is a distinct casserole-style dish made with ground beef, a hearty tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and frequently cheese, all cooked together in one pot or baked in a casserole. It’s distinctly American comfort food, borrowing only the “goulash” name but very different in preparation and ingredients.

Can I make this goulash in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is primarily designed for stovetop and oven preparation for its faster cook time, you could certainly adapt it for a slow cooker. To do so, first brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop. Then, transfer them to the slow cooker along with all the wet ingredients and seasonings (excluding the macaroni and cheese). Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the pre-cooked macaroni and shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent the pasta from becoming overly mushy. Be aware that this method may result in a slightly different texture.

Is this goulash recipe spicy?

No, this traditional American Goulash recipe is inherently not spicy. It relies on the savory and comforting flavors of browned beef, rich tomatoes, and a classic blend of Italian herbs. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can easily customize it by adding a pinch or two of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning, or stirring in a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tomato mixture according to your taste.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Worcestershire sauce plays a key role in adding a unique umami depth and a subtle tangy complexity that greatly enhances the overall flavor of the goulash. If you don’t have it on hand, a small amount of soy sauce (for umami) or even a tiny bit of balsamic vinegar (for tang and depth) can offer a somewhat similar savory-tangy note. However, the exact flavor profile will be slightly different. It’s truly recommended not to omit it entirely if you can help it!

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a blend of ground beef and pork. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken might require a little extra oil when browning and may result in a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust seasonings as needed to suit your chosen meat.

More American Comfort Foods You’ll Love

If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed this traditional old fashioned goulash, you’re in for a treat with these other beloved American comfort food classics that promise warmth and satisfaction:

• Hearty Beef Chili: A warming, robust, and flavorful bowl perfect for cool evenings or game days, loaded with beans and spices.
• Copycat KFC Bowl: All the deliciousness of the fast-food favorite – crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, and corn – perfectly homemade and incredibly satisfying.
• Comforting Ham and Split Pea Soup: A classic, savory, and incredibly wholesome soup that’s both hearty and surprisingly simple to make, perfect for using leftover ham.
• Flavorful Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Enjoy all the great tastes of traditional stuffed peppers, but simplified into an easy-to-make and satisfying casserole form.
• Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: A fantastic set-it-and-forget-it meal that yields incredibly tender, flavorful chicken draped in a rich, homemade gravy, ideal for busy days.

4.48 from 1787 votes

Old Fashioned Goulash

By

Erin Sellin

This old fashioned goulash recipe is hearty and comforting. It’s full of juicy beef, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, bringing classic American comfort to your table.

Prep:

15 minutes
mins

Cook:

30 minutes
mins

Total:

45 minutes
mins

Servings:
8

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Equipment

• Global Knives
• Pot and Pan Set
• Cutting Boards
• Large Oven-Safe Skillet or Dutch Oven
• Large Pot for Pasta

Ingredients

• ▢
  1 pound elbow macaroni
• ▢
  2 pounds ground beef (85/15 or 90/10 lean recommended)
• ▢
  1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• ▢
  3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for best flavor)
• ▢
  1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ▢
  2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
• ▢
  2 14.5 oz cans petit diced tomatoes (or regular diced)
• ▢
  1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• ▢
  2 teaspoons salt (plus more for pasta water)
• ▢
  1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• ▢
  1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly shredded for best melt)

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook macaroni for 3 minutes less than the box directions for an al dente texture that will finish cooking in the oven, then drain thoroughly.
• Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven) over high heat. Add ground beef and finely chopped onions to the pan. Break beef apart with a spoon and cook for 6-7 minutes until deeply browned and onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
• Reduce heat to medium. Mix in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
• Stir in Worcestershire sauce, canned tomato sauce, and canned diced tomatoes. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, then taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as desired to suit your preference.
• Remove from heat. Mix in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is thoroughly combined and the cheese starts to melt into the warm sauce. If your skillet is oven-safe, place it directly in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the goulash is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden. If not, transfer the goulash to a 9×13 inch casserole dish and bake as directed. Serve warm, allowing a few minutes to rest for best results.

Notes

• Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze completely cooled goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave on 80% power in 30-second increments, stirring frequently, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• To reheat larger portions on the stovetop, transfer to a pot, add a bit of water/broth, and warm over medium-low heat, stirring until heated through.
• For a richer flavor, always salt your pasta water!
• Adjust seasonings to your liking before the final bake.

Nutrition

Calories: 611kcal |
Carbohydrates: 55g |
Protein: 33g |
Fat: 29g |
Saturated Fat: 12g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 11g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 95mg |
Sodium: 1296mg |
Potassium: 1014mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 9g |
Vitamin A: 745IU |
Vitamin C: 19mg |
Calcium: 203mg |
Iron: 6mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin

Prep Time:

15 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes
minutes

Course:
Dinner Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine:
American, Comfort Food

Servings:
8

Calories:
611

Keyword:
american goulash, beef goulash, easy goulash recipe, homemade goulash, comfort food, macaroni, one pot meal

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