A traditional Mom’s Goulash recipe made with ground beef, macaroni, and stewed tomatoes. Simple ingredients, rich flavor, and the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights.

Why This Mom’s Goulash Recipe Feels Like Home

There are meals that simply fill you up, and then there are meals that take you back. Mom’s Goulash is one of those timeless dishes that brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure satisfaction to the table. It is humble, uncomplicated, and deeply comforting. Tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and rich tomatoes come together in a way that feels both hearty and familiar. Whether you are cooking for your family or craving something cozy after a long day, this recipe delivers dependable comfort in every bite.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Servings: 6 generous portions

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Potato masher
Knife and cutting board
Colander for draining pasta

Ingredients

1/2 pound macaroni
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, diced
Garlic salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Chili powder to taste
Hot sauce to taste
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons ketchup
Tomato juice as needed for desired consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef and diced onion together in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft.
Drain excess fat carefully. Season the beef mixture with garlic salt, black pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to your taste.
In a separate bowl, mash the whole stewed tomatoes with a potato masher until slightly broken down but still textured.
Add the mashed tomatoes and ketchup to the beef mixture. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to develop flavor.
Add the drained macaroni to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
If you prefer a juicier consistency, add tomato juice gradually until the desired texture is reached.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor

Do not overcook the macaroni; keeping it al dente prevents it from becoming too soft once combined. Allow the beef and tomato mixture to simmer briefly before adding the pasta to deepen the flavor. Season gradually and taste often, especially when adjusting chili powder or hot sauce. For a richer profile, let the finished dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Easy Variations and Additions

For a cheesier version, stir in shredded cheddar during the final minutes of cooking. Add diced bell peppers for extra texture and color. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and skip the hot sauce. For a slightly sweeter balance, increase the ketchup by one tablespoon.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because the pasta absorbs liquid over time, add a splash of tomato juice before reheating to restore moisture. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 420–480
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: Varies based on seasoning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mom’s Goulash ahead of time?

Yes. It reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend.

Can I freeze goulash?

Yes, though the pasta texture may soften slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Add tomato juice when reheating, as the macaroni naturally absorbs liquid during storage.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Small shells or elbow pasta work well while maintaining the classic texture.

Final Tip

Cook it with patience, season it with confidence, and do not rush the simmering stage. Mom’s Goulash is not about complexity; it is about comfort. Serve it warm, gather everyone around the table, and let this simple, hearty dish do what it has always done best—bring people together.