Here’s a hearty, comforting Old-Fashioned American Goulash recipe — a one-pot classic made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and a nostalgic favorite for many families.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz / 425g) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
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1½ cups beef broth (or water)
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1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt, to taste
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are soft (about 5–7 minutes).
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Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
2. Build the Sauce
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Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta
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Stir in the uncooked macaroni.
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Reduce heat, cover, and simmer gently for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Add a splash more broth or water if needed during cooking.
4. Finish and Serve
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Taste and adjust seasonings.
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If using cheese, sprinkle over the top and cover until melted.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Serve with buttered bread, garlic toast, or a crisp green salad.
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Leftovers reheat beautifully — even better the next day!
🔁 Tips & Variations
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Add veggies: Toss in diced bell pepper, mushrooms, or corn with the onions.
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Make it cheesy: Stir in 1–2 cups shredded cheese at the end for a cheesier version.
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Stretch it: Add a can of beans (like kidney or pinto) to make it go further.
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Spicy twist: Use spicy diced tomatoes or add cayenne for a kick.
Would you like the Hungarian-style goulash (with beef chunks and paprika gravy) instead?