What is the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?

Hungarian goulash is a paprika-spiced beef stew often made with chunks of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. American goulash, like this old fashioned goulash recipe, uses ground beef, tomato sauce, and elbow pasta in a one-pot meal that’s quick and easy.

What is goulash made of?

Traditional American goulash is made with ground beef, onion, garlic, canned tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and seasoning. It's a simple, hearty meal perfect for families.

What pasta works best in goulash?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but small shells or rotini also work well. The goal is to use a pasta shape that holds onto sauce and blends easily with the meat mixture.

How do you thicken goulash?

Simmer with the lid off to reduce liquid naturally. For extra thickness, stir in a small spoon of tomato paste or sprinkle in instant potato flakes for a quick fix.

Is goulash good for meal prep or freezing?

Absolutely. It’s one of the best meal prep pasta recipes out there. Just store noodles and sauce separately when prepping ahead, or freeze the dish in individual portions for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I make goulash without beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work well. With the right seasoning and tomato base, you can still enjoy all the comfort without the beef.

Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe: 7 Secrets to Rich Flavor

Name: Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 2 cups beef or chicken broth; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Salt or pink salt to taste; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Description

A hearty one-pot American classic, this Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe blends ground beef, elbow pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for pure comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt or pink salt to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
Add ground beef. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire, and seasonings.
Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes.
Stir in uncooked macaroni. Reduce heat and cover.
Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add pink salt if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Notes

For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp butter before serving.

To prep ahead, cook pasta separately and combine when serving.

Freezes beautifully in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 65mg