Old Fashioned Goulash

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Then, add the beef broth (or water) and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until combined. Season the mixture with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you find the tomato sauce a bit too tangy, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cooked pasta and mix until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta absorbs some of the delicious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Old Fashioned Goulash hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese (if desired) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Goulash:

• Beef Choices: Ground beef is the traditional choice for this recipe, but you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a leaner option.
• Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Customize the Sauce: If you like your goulash a little spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. You can also swap out some of the beef broth for a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor.
• Make Ahead: Old Fashioned Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Freezer-Friendly: This dish also freezes well. Once it has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Goulash:

• Comforting and Hearty: This dish is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at a gathering.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this goulash recipe is straightforward and easy to pull together, even on the busiest days.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer extra cheese, more veggies, or a little heat, this recipe can be adapted to fit your tastes.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes are affordable ingredients, making this dish a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Conclusion:

Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless dish that brings together comforting flavors in a simple, satisfying way. With its tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to enjoy a cozy meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, Old Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Enjoy!