Old Fashioned Goulash

Let me take you back to the heartwarming, soul-satisfying meals of childhood with this Old Fashioned Goulash. Imagine a dish that combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, all bubbling together in perfect harmony. This classic comfort food is packed with flavors that make you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket. It’s the kind of meal that makes your house smell incredible and fills your stomach with happiness. Trust me, this one is a game-changer that will make you feel all the warm fuzzies.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Goulash

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: You can serve this for a quick dinner or make a big batch for a crowd. It’s the kind of dish that’s always welcome at the table, no matter the occasion.
• Budget-Friendly: No need for fancy ingredients—this recipe makes use of simple pantry staples, so you can enjoy a filling meal without breaking the bank.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have this meal ready in no time. Perfect for days when you’re craving comfort without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Want to spice it up? Add some chili flakes or smoked paprika. Looking for a veggie boost? Toss in some bell peppers or spinach. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this goulash will win everyone over. It’s hearty, delicious, and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Here’s what makes this goulash so irresistible—these pantry-friendly ingredients are simple, but together, they create a comforting dish that everyone will love:

Ground Beef: The heart of this goulash. It adds richness and flavor, and as it simmers in the tomato sauce, it takes on all those savory, delicious notes.

Elbow Macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for goulash. These little tubes of pasta soak up the sauce, creating the perfect bite with every scoop.

Onion: Adds a savory, slightly sweet base flavor that compliments the beef and sauce perfectly. It softens as it cooks, blending beautifully with the other ingredients.

Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! It adds a depth of flavor and a fragrant kick to the dish.

Diced Tomatoes: The foundation of the sauce. These juicy, tangy tomatoes give the goulash its rich, comforting base.

Tomato Sauce: This smooth sauce ties everything together, creating the ideal consistency and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor.

Beef Broth: Adds a rich, savory liquid to the goulash, helping the flavors meld together as it simmers.

Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, and Italian Herbs): These simple seasonings elevate the dish and bring out the best in the beef and tomatoes.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to make this Old Fashioned Goulash.

Cook the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbly. Break it apart as it cooks, making sure it’s evenly browned. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté the Veggies

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Liquids

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together, making sure the beef is well-coated with the sauce. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning mix. Bring it all to a simmer.

Add the Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover the pan and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Check the Consistency

If the mixture is too thick, add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked and the pasta is tender, serve the goulash hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, if you like. Enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this Old Fashioned Goulash!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash

This goulash is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. It’s the perfect way to round out the meal.
• Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad dressed in a vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich goulash.
• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving for an extra cheesy kick.
• Steamed Veggies: Serve with a side of steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness of the goulash.

Additional Tips

Here are a few more tips to make your goulash even better:

• Prep Ahead: You can brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, then just heat them up and add the rest of the ingredients when you’re ready to cook.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the tomatoes.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezer-Friendly: Goulash freezes beautifully! Just let it cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will still be delicious and flavorful with the tomato sauce and spices.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Goulash tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld. You can store it in the fridge or freeze it for later.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed.

Q4: Can I freeze this goulash?
A4: Yes, this recipe freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q5: How do I reheat frozen goulash?
A5: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Q6: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q7: Is there a vegetarian version of goulash?
A7: Yes! You can use lentils or plant-based meat instead of beef for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Q8: What’s the best pasta to use?
A8: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can use any short pasta, like penne or rotini, if you prefer.

Q9: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.

Q10: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A10: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for some extra heat!

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Goulash is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s simple, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to warm you up and put a smile on your face. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a taste of nostalgia in every bite!

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