Introduction
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a warm and filling American comfort food made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Often topped with cheese, it’s beloved for its simplicity, flavor, and crowd-pleasing nature. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prep.
Though it shares a name with the Hungarian original, American goulash is its own unique creation — a blend of Midwestern practicality and Eastern European inspiration.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
The American version of goulash, also known as “American Chop Suey” in some regions, is an adaptation of Hungarian goulash. Traditional Hungarian goulash is a paprika-rich beef stew, often slow-cooked with potatoes and vegetables. Immigrants brought the idea to the U.S., where it evolved into a quick stovetop casserole with pasta and tomato sauce — ideal for busy households during the 20th century.
This dish became a staple in American kitchens for its affordability, easy preparation, and ability to feed a crowd — especially during the Great Depression and WWII eras.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)
For the Goulash:
2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp paprika (Hungarian sweet paprika preferred)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
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Optional Additions
Add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
Stir in ½ tsp chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick
Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version
Add canned corn, peas, or mushrooms for more texture
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or parmesan
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Tips for Success
Brown meat thoroughly for deeper flavor
Cook pasta just shy of al dente before combining (to avoid mushiness)
Simmer the sauce to thicken before adding pasta
Stir in cheese while warm if you prefer it melted throughout
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld
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Instructions
1. Cook the Beef and Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
2. Build the Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Pasta
While sauce simmers, cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine and Heat Through
Stir cooked pasta into the sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
5. Add Cheese (Optional)
Stir in shredded cheese or sprinkle it over the top and cover until melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, more cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
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Description
This dish is hearty, tangy, and savory with a satisfying chew from the pasta and rich tomato flavors infused into every bite. The optional cheese adds a creamy finish that turns it into comfort food perfection. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.
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Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx. with cheese)
Calories: 450–550
Protein: 28–32g
Carbohydrates: 35–45g
Fat: 22–28g
Fiber: 3–5g
Sodium: 700–850mg
Reduce calories and sodium by using lean meat, low-sodium tomatoes, and skipping or reducing cheese.
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Old-Fashioned Goulash Delight is a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for busy nights or comforting weekends. It brings people together around the table with its nostalgic flavor and big-batch convenience. Whether you’re feeding a family or freezing meals for later, this is a go-to dish that never goes out of style.
Serve with:
A side of garlic bread
A crisp green salad
Or simply with grated Parmesan and fresh basil
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Want to make it lighter while keeping it indulgent?
Use whole grain or chickpea pasta
Replace half the beef with lentils or mushrooms
Go cheese-light or use part-skim cheese
Add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or carrots
Swap with ground turkey for leaner protein