History of Old-Fashioned Goulash

Old-Fashioned Goulash, often called American Chop Suey, has roots in Central Europe. The original Hungarian goulash was a hearty stew made by cattle herders using beef, onions, and paprika. When European immigrants brought it to America, they adapted it — adding pasta, tomatoes, and more accessible ingredients.
By the mid-20th century, this “American Goulash” had become a weeknight staple — affordable, filling, and perfect for feeding a big family. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings generations together around the dinner table.

Ingredients**

For 8–10 hearty servings:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth (or water)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons paprika (Hungarian if available)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions**

Step 1: Brown the meat

1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Cook until no pink remains, about 7–10 minutes.
4. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

1. Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the meat.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften and smell amazing.

Step 3: Build the sauce

1. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
3. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally so it thickens and flavors combine beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the pasta

1. In a separate pot, cook elbow macaroni just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions).
2. Drain and add the pasta directly to the goulash mixture.
3. Stir well and simmer together for another 5–7 minutes, until the pasta finishes cooking and absorbs the flavors.

Step 5: Make it creamy and cheesy (optional but heavenly)

1. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese right before serving for a creamy, cheesy texture.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning — a little more salt, pepper, or paprika as desired.

Serving Ideas**

Serve hot with:

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions
• A side of buttery garlic bread
• A crisp garden salad or coleslaw

This dish also reheats beautifully — the flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day!

Benefits**

• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable pantry staples.
• Feeds a crowd: Perfect for big families or meal prep.
• Comfort in a bowl: Warm, rich, and filling — ideal for cold evenings.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with extra veggies, ground turkey, or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Make-ahead friendly: Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Conclusion**

Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal — it’s a taste of nostalgia. Each bite brings warmth, memories, and that “home-cooked love” flavor that no restaurant can beat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving comfort food on a rainy day, this dish never disappoints.

Serve it up, grab a spoon, and enjoy a big helping of classic American comfort!