Old Fashioned Beef Goulash

Hello! I am so happy to see you back here at Ritzy Recipes. Today, we are making a dish that is the definition of a “hug in a bowl.” This Old Fashioned Beef Goulash is a recipe that takes me straight back to my childhood. I remember the smell of simmering tomatoes and savory beef filling the house on chilly afternoons. When my son was small, this was the meal I turned to when I needed something fast, filling, and full of heart.

Next, you will find that this is a true One Pot American Goulash Recipe. There is no need to boil a separate pot of water for the pasta, which makes cleanup so much easier. This Old Fashioned Beef Goulash is a soulful, simple meal that relies on basic pantry staples to create a rich, comforting flavor. Also, it is the kind of dinner that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Grab a glass of sweet tea, and let’s get this skillet started! If you love these kinds of cozy, one-pan meals, you must try my stovetop creamy ground beef pasta for your next busy weeknight.

The Context: What You Need

Before we turn on the stove, let’s look at our supplies for a perfect Old Fashioned Beef Goulash. For a Traditional Ground Beef Goulash, you want to use a lean ground beef so the dish isn’t too greasy. Then, make sure you have a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. This is essential for cooking the pasta right in the sauce.

Gather these simple ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Also, if you want a Southern Style Beef Goulash twist, you can add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese at the very end. Having all your ingredients ready makes the process for Old Fashioned Beef Goulash seamless. For another beefy favorite that uses simple pantry items, check out my easy weeknight meatball subs.

The Core Content: Step-by-Step Comfort

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

First, heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions to the pan. Next, use your wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it browns. This ensures every bite of your Easy Beef and Macaroni Skillet is perfectly seasoned. Also, the onions will soften and sweeten as they cook in the beef drippings.

Then, drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the flavors clean. Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute until it is fragrant. This step creates the savory “soul” of our Old Fashioned Beef Goulash.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce

Next, pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This liquid base is what transforms into a rich gravy for the pasta. Also, the acidity of the tomatoes balances beautifully with the savory beef.

Then, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is the foundation of any One Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomatoes. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to release all those tasty browned bits. If you are looking for more tomato-based inspiration, my [creamy bacon tomato pasta](https://ritzyrecipes.com/creamy- bacon-tomato-pasta/) is another soulful delight.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Pot

Now, stir the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the bubbling sauce. Turn the heat down to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Next, let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir it occasionally to ensure the noodles do not stick to the bottom while making your Old Fashioned Beef Goulash.

Finally, check the macaroni for tenderness. The pasta should be soft but not mushy, having absorbed all those wonderful beef and tomato flavors. If the sauce is too thick, simply add a splash more beef broth. Your Old Fashioned Beef Goulash is ready to be served in big, steaming bowls. For a perfect side, you can’t go wrong with my best cheesy garlic bread recipe.

FAQs

Wrap-Up & Call to Action

I hope this Old Fashioned Beef Goulash brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to your table. It is a humble, real-life meal that never fails to satisfy. It proves that the simplest ingredients often make the most soulful dinners. If you need a sweet treat to follow this savory dish, my soft baked apple cinnamon rolls are a dream!

Please leave a comment below if you try this recipe—I love hearing your stories! Also, Pin this for later on Pinterest so you always have a reliable one-pot dinner ready to go.

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