Old Fashioned Goulash

How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Once cooked, drain any excess fat, if needed.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato paste. Add the beef broth (or water) to create a saucy base. Then, season with Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

4. Add the Pasta

Once the sauce is simmering, add the uncooked elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta). Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce starts to get too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Taste and Adjust

Once the pasta is cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor to your liking.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is cooked through and well combined, remove the pot from heat. Serve your Old Fashioned Goulash hot, optionally topped with shredded cheese for an extra indulgent touch. Pair with a side salad or some crusty bread, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

1. One-Pot Wonder: One of the best things about Old Fashioned Goulash is its simplicity. Everything comes together in one pot, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup. It’s a hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy days or weeknight dinners.
2. Kid-Friendly: Goulash is a great dish for families with kids. Its mild, savory flavors and familiar ingredients like pasta and ground beef make it a crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
3. Leftovers: Like many comfort foods, Old Fashioned Goulash tastes even better the next day. It’s a great dish for meal prep, and the leftovers can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for later use.
4. Flavorful & Filling: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta creates a dish that’s both flavorful and filling. It’s the perfect comfort food to satisfy hunger without being too heavy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Goulash

• Meat Options: While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Ground pork also works well if you prefer a slightly sweeter, richer taste.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to make the dish even more hearty and nutritious. Just chop them small so they cook quickly and evenly with the meat.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the mix for an extra kick.
• Cheese: Topping your goulash with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity with bold flavors. With its savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that will bring smiles to the table every time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this hearty one-pot meal is sure to become a go-to recipe. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious, Old Fashioned Goulash is a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger with every bite.