Old Fashioned Goulash
Old Fashioned Goulash combines savory beef, rich tomatoes, and melted cheese with pasta for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add canned whole tomatoes and Ragu spaghetti sauce to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Add the American cheese to the sauce and simmer until the cheese is completely melted.
- Meanwhile, boil the elbow macaroni until done.
- Drain the macaroni and mix it into the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when browning the hamburger and onion. If American cheese isn't available, cheddar or a cheese blend can work well as substitutes. You can also use any type of pasta you have on hand instead of elbow macaroni. To enhance the dish, try adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Old Fashioned Goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Ladies Home Journal 'Award Winning' Homestyle Baked Beans for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until hot. If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Goulash contains roughly 745 calories, with 26g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1353mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this goulash a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the mixing stage, then cool and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove, adding a little water if it thickens too much.
Is it possible to freeze leftover goulash?
Absolutely! Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when browning the meat. This adds nutrition and flavor to the dish, making it even more hearty and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).