Name: Nostalgic American Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 1 green bell pepper (diced); 1 lb. ground beef (90% lean); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 2 1/2 cups beef broth; 1 15-oz can tomato sauce; 1 15-oz can petite diced tomatoes (don’t drain); 1 1/2 cup macaroni noodles (uncooked); 2 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe

If there’s any dish that captures cozy family dinners, big hugs from grandma, and the unmistakable aroma of home-cooked comfort, it has to be Nostalgic American Goulash. This skillet classic is a vibrant blend of savory ground beef, colorful veggies, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce—all wrapped up with a generous sprinkle of melty cheddar. Whether you’re craving a weeknight meal that satisfies or introducing a new generation to an American staple, one bowl of this goulash brings all the heart and flavor you could hope for.

Nostalgic American Goulash Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Nostalgic American Goulash is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital part, creating layers of flavor, a gorgeous color palette, and a texture that’s impossible to resist. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips for each item:

Olive oil: Offers a smooth, flavorful base for sautéing your vegetables and beef—use extra-virgin if you have it for best flavor.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds delicate sweetness and a savory aromatic note.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Brings brightness and crunch—swap for red or yellow if you’re feeling bold.
1 lb. ground beef (90% lean): The hearty foundation; lean beef keeps things rich but not greasy.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that irresistible, mouthwatering aroma.
2 1/2 cups beef broth: Deepens the flavor and helps create a luscious sauce for the noodles to soak up.
1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce: Lends richness and a tangy base—opt for a no-salt-added version if you like to control your seasoning.
1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes (do not drain): Bursts of juicy tomato in every bite and the extra liquid helps your macaroni cook perfectly.
1 1/2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked): The classic shape for goulash; elbows hold up well and soak in all that delicious sauce.
2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami kick you don’t want to skip.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A quick cheat for big herbal flavor; dried oregano, basil, and thyme all work in harmony.
2 bay leaves: Infuse the whole pot with a touch of woodsiness—remember to fish them out before serving!
1 teaspoon paprika: Sweet and a little smoky, paprika adds depth and a pretty red hue.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: For just the right hint of heat and warmth.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The molten, golden finish—use sharp cheddar for the biggest punch.

How to Make Nostalgic American Goulash

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, sturdy pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for a few minutes until both begin to soften and the kitchen fills with their fragrance. Add the ground beef right into the veggies, breaking it up with your spoon, and cook until the beef is browned and no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. This base is what gives Nostalgic American Goulash its hearty, irresistible flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic for Depth

With your beef and veggies fragrant and browned, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds—just long enough to unlock its mellow, nutty goodness but not so long that it burns. Garlic is the foundation of comfort food flavor, so don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Bring on the Saucy Goodness

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes. Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and the bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to blend that symphony of flavors. Crank up the heat to bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce to low, cover, and let your goulash simmer away for about 20 minutes. This is where the “magic” happens—the flavors get to know each other, and the sauce thickens into something amazing.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Turn the heat back up to medium-high and stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles. Let it bubble for 10–12 minutes, stirring now and then to keep things from sticking. The pasta will absorb all that savory broth and become perfectly tender, while the sauce thickens up just right. If you like your goulash saucier, add a splash more broth—totally up to you!

Step 5: Finish with Cheddar Perfection

Once the macaroni is al dente and everything smells impossibly delicious, turn off the heat. Remove the bay leaves (they’ve given their all!). Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover for a minute or two to let it melt into dreamy gooeyness. Gently swirl the cheese through the pasta, then serve up your Nostalgic American Goulash while it’s hot and melty.

How to Serve Nostalgic American Goulash

Garnishes

A few thoughtful garnishes can make your bowl of Nostalgic American Goulash even more inviting. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for color and a touch of freshness. Some folks love a spoonful of sour cream or an extra shake of sharp cheddar for that decadent, creamy finish. Even a quick crack of black pepper over the top can make each serving feel special.

Side Dishes

This is a dish that’s already satisfying all on its own, but if you want to create the ultimate comfort food spread, serve your goulash alongside warm, buttered rolls or crusty garlic bread. A crisp green salad dressed with a zingy vinaigrette adds a touch of freshness that balances all the hearty, saucy goodness on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

To put a playful, nostalgic spin on serving, try spooning the goulash into small cast iron skillets or individual ramekins before adding the cheese—you’ll get personal-size, bubbly “casseroles.” For a crowd or potluck, transfer the finished goulash to a big serving dish, top with extra cheese, and let everyone scoop their own. You can even pack leftovers in a thermos for a soul-warming lunch at work or school!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Nostalgic American Goulash keeps like a dream. Cool it down completely and then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen and become even richer after a night’s rest, making it perfect for make-ahead meal prepping or easy lunches.

Freezing

You’ll be happy to know this goulash is freezer friendly! Spoon cooled goulash into a freezer-safe bag or container. Lay flat in the freezer for quick chilling and easier storage. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture. If you know you’ll be freezing, you can slightly undercook the macaroni so it stays al dente when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things saucy. For a bigger batch, a covered pot over medium heat on the stovetop is just the ticket. Stir occasionally and add extra cheese if you’re in the mood—no one’s judging!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While macaroni elbows are classic for Nostalgic American Goulash, small shells, rotini, or penne all work beautifully. The main thing is to choose a shape that cooks at about the same rate.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Of course! Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils, and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth. You’ll still get all the cozy flavors and satisfying texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Why not? You can toss in diced carrots, mushrooms, or even a handful of baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in extra veggies and a pop of color.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

No worries! You can substitute soy sauce for a similar boost of umami, or use a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tang. Each will bring something a little different, but your goulash will stay comforting and delicious.

Will this recipe double easily?

Yes, it’s super simple to scale up for a crowd. Just use a bigger pot and keep an eye on your cooking times—especially with the noodles. Potluck nostalgia for everyone!

Final Thoughts

There’s a special magic in a big, bubbling pot of Nostalgic American Goulash—it turns dinner into a warm embrace and transforms the simplest pantry ingredients into a meal worth gathering for. I hope you’ll scoop up a bowl soon and carry on this classic comfort tradition in your own kitchen!

Nostalgic American Goulash Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Nostalgic American Goulash recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that brings back memories of family dinners. It’s hearty, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy evening at home.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
Add macaroni noodles and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Notes

You can customize this goulash by adding your favorite vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American