Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender elbow macaroni all in one pot. This classic dish has been a family favorite for generations and continues to bring joy to dinner tables everywhere. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, goulash offers a satisfying, flavorful meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The combination of seasoned beef, tangy tomatoes, and melt-in-your-mouth macaroni creates a dish that is both filling and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, Old Fashioned Goulash is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Filling

This goulash is a one-pot wonder, packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables to keep you full and satisfied.

2. Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is quick and easy to throw together, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

3. One-Pot Meal

No need to worry about multiple pots and pans. Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

4. Customizable

You can add in extra vegetables or seasonings to make the dish your own. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for picky eaters.

5. Family-Friendly

With its familiar flavors and comforting nature, Old Fashioned Goulash is a meal that kids and adults alike will love.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

• Ground beef
• Medium onion
• Garlic
• Diced tomatoes (undrained)
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Elbow macaroni
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: You can incorporate diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added color and nutrition.
2. Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the goulash a spicy kick.
3. Cheese Lovers: For an extra cheesy version, mix in more shredded cheddar cheese, or use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Swap the Meat: If you prefer a leaner dish, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of elbow macaroni to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
• Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pot.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
• Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

• Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s well combined with the sauce and beef.
• Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the pot from the heat.
• Serve immediately, garnishing with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta often to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy.
2. Flavor Boost: Add extra garlic or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of the beef.
3. Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
4. Use Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20. You can drain excess fat if desired.
5. Add More Veggies: Sneak in some extra vegetables like peas or corn to boost the nutrition of the dish.

How to Serve

Old Fashioned Goulash is best served hot straight from the pot. Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or even a warm biscuit for a complete, satisfying meal. The rich flavors of the goulash pair well with a light, crisp salad to balance out the heaviness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or beef broth to loosen up the sauce if necessary.

Freezing

• You can freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stovetop.

Reheating

• Reheat goulash on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the dish has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells in place of elbow macaroni.

2. How do I make goulash spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to give the goulash a spicy kick.

3. Can I make goulash with ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the goulash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for later.

5. Can I add cheese to the goulash?

Absolutely! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top is a delicious way to enhance the dish.

6. What can I serve with goulash?

Goulash pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

7. How do I know when the pasta is done?

Check the pasta for tenderness, but be careful not to overcook it. It should be soft but still firm enough to hold its shape.

8. Can I use canned tomatoes for the diced tomatoes?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly in this recipe, and you don’t need to drain them.

9. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

10. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu to make a vegetarian version of goulash.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings the warmth of classic home cooking to your table. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With a rich, savory sauce, tender pasta, and optional cheese, this goulash is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, and enjoy the delicious results!

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