Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal that brings together simple ingredients for a hearty and flavorful dish. This classic recipe is made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The savory blend of beef, pasta, and tomato sauce is rich and filling, while the optional addition of shredded cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess that takes the dish to the next level. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving a nostalgic comfort food, Old Fashioned Goulash is sure to hit the spot. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it a perfect go-to dish for any occasion. The best part? It’s ready in just under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick, delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, savory flavors and the satisfying bite of tender pasta, it’s a dish that will warm you up from the inside out. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni creates a hearty meal that’s perfect for all ages. What makes this recipe even more appealing is how simple it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, even though it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add cheese, adjust the seasoning to your taste, or even throw in extra veggies to make it your own. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

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

Variations

• Vegetarian Goulash: Skip the ground beef and use plant-based protein or extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few diced jalapeños to give the goulash a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Goulash: For a gooey, cheesy version, stir in extra cheese while cooking or top the goulash with a layer of cheese before serving.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas for added texture and nutrients.

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 fully browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring everything together. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pot from the heat. Serve the goulash immediately, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a less greasy dish, opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher).
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta occasionally while cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become mushy. The pasta should be tender, but still hold its shape.
• Season to Taste: If you like a more intense flavor, feel free to adjust the seasonings by adding extra paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Add More Broth for a Soupy Texture: If you prefer a soupier goulash, add a little extra beef broth to the pot.

How to Serve

Old Fashioned Goulash is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside:

• Garlic Bread: Pair the goulash with crispy, buttered garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the rich, savory goulash.
• Steamed Veggies: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or any vegetable of your choice for extra nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze Old Fashioned Goulash for up to 3 months. Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the goulash in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells, if you don’t have elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

3. Is Old Fashioned Goulash gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free due to the pasta. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

4. Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, add all the ingredients (except the pasta) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I add vegetables to the goulash?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

6. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to brown it well before adding the other ingredients.

7. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, chicken broth can be used, but it will slightly change the flavor of the dish.

8. Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes, the cheese is optional. The goulash is delicious on its own without the cheese, but it adds a nice creamy finish if you prefer.

9. How can I make the goulash spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased ingredients.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or craving a cozy meal, this dish will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart. With its hearty blend of beef, pasta, and seasonings, this goulash is sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s versatile and simple enough to adjust to your tastes. So, gather your ingredients, cook up this delicious dish, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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