Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe: Hearty, Cheesy, and Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something about Old Fashioned Goulash that feels like home. Maybe it’s the bubbling tomato sauce, the tender pasta soaking up every bit of flavor, or the way melted cheese stretches when you scoop it onto a plate. It’s simple food—but deeply satisfying food.

I still remember the first time I made this on a chilly evening when everyone was hungry and I needed something dependable. One bite in, and I knew—this one was staying in the rotation.

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Overview of This Old Fashioned Goulash

This baked American-style goulash combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheddar cheese into one hearty casserole that feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍝 Pantry-friendly ingredients

• 🥩 Hearty and filling

• 🧀 Gooey, melty cheese topping

• 🍲 Perfect for meal prep

• 💛 Family-approved comfort food

It’s cozy. It’s satisfying. And it tastes even better the next day.

What It Tastes Like

Savory beef, sweet onions, garlic, and a tomato-rich sauce infused with Italian herbs. The pasta absorbs all that goodness while baking, and the cheddar melts into creamy pockets throughout.

It’s rich without being heavy. Familiar without being boring.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Budget-friendly

• Feeds 6–8 people easily

• Freezer-friendly

• Easy to customize

• Great for potlucks or weeknight dinners

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Goulash

• 1 pound elbow macaroni

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce

• 2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes

• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Necessary Tools

• Large pot (for pasta)

• Large skillet or Dutch oven

• Colander

• Wooden spoon

• 9×13-inch casserole dish (if skillet isn’t oven-safe)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Add Vegetables

• Diced bell peppers

• Mushrooms

• Zucchini

• Spinach stirred in at the end

Switch Up the Cheese

• Mozzarella for extra stretch

• Parmesan for sharper flavor

• Pepper jack for a little heat

Make It Lighter

• Use ground turkey instead of beef

• Reduce cheese slightly

How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash