Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix well so that all the flavors blend together.
💡 Note: The paprika gives the dish its classic warm depth—don’t skip it if you want that old-fashioned flavor!
Step 4: Simmer for Flavor
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to develop beautifully.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering mixture.
Stir well to make sure all the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the rich tomato-beef flavor.
đź’ˇ Tip: If the mixture becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a bit more beef broth or water.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed.
If you’d like a creamy, cheesy version, stir in shredded cheddar cheese right before serving—it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Old-Fashioned Goulash is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- A slice of buttery garlic bread
- A green salad with vinaigrette
- Or a side of steamed vegetables for balance
It also makes fantastic leftovers—the flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
🕰️ Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Goulash freezes beautifully. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe bags, and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy, just real pantry staples.
- Budget-friendly: Feeds a family without breaking the bank.
- Comforting & filling: Perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add bell peppers, corn, or cheese to make it your own.
✨ Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic bowl of comfort that connects generations. Each bite brings warmth, simplicity, and satisfaction, reminding us that the best dishes often come from the humblest ingredients. Whether you’re making it for your family, friends, or just yourself, this goulash will fill your kitchen with love and your heart with comfort.
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