1-Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) for this Southern style beef goulash recipe, which ensures everything is ready for a smooth cooking process. This hearty old fashioned beef goulash comes together in about 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, making it perfect for busy nights. Follow these steps to achieve a flavorful, comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple.

2-Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 3 minutes less than the package instructions, then drain it well to keep the pasta from becoming mushy. In a hot skillet, brown the 2 pounds of ground beef with the finely chopped yellow onion for 6 to 7 minutes, and don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a cleaner flavor. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it’s fragrant, building a strong base for your goulash.

3-Next, stir in the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, the two 15-ounce cans of tomato sauce, and the two 14.5-ounce cans of petite diced tomatoes, along with the 1 1/2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste for that perfect balance. Mix in the cooked macaroni and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, then transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish.

4-Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese has melted beautifully. This step ensures the flavors meld together for a truly hearty beef goulash. If you’re looking for more beef-based recipes, check out our BBQ beef casserole for another family favorite.