Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
   Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, letting the flavors meld together for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Beef Broth and Pasta:
   Pour in the beef broth (or water) and stir in the elbow macaroni. Bring everything to a simmer again, then cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Check for Seasoning:
   Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
6. Optional Cheesy Topping:
   If you like your goulash extra cheesy, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash and cover the pot for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts into the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve the goulash hot, and enjoy the comforting combination of tender pasta, flavorful beef, and rich tomato sauce. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Goulash

• Use Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use ground beef with a little fat (80/20 ratio) to keep the goulash juicy and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even peas for added texture and nutrition. You can sauté them with the onions for a more robust flavor.
• Make It Spicy: If you prefer a spicier goulash, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.
• Leftovers: This goulash recipe is perfect for leftovers! Store any extra goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
• One-Pot Meal: One of the best things about goulash is that it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pan, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.

Why Old-Fashioned Goulash is Perfect for Any Occasion

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a versatile dish that works well for a variety of occasions:

• Family Dinners: Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a dish that’s sure to please picky eaters, goulash is a hit. It’s filling, comforting, and easy to make in large batches.
• Weeknight Meals: After a long day, this is the kind of meal that comes together quickly, without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a satisfying dinner that doesn’t take much time to prepare.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: Goulash is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or family gathering. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make in large quantities, and everyone loves it.
• Comfort Food for All Ages: Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this hearty dish is universally loved. Its flavors are familiar, warm, and comforting, making it perfect for cozy nights in.

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Goulash is the epitome of comfort food, and this recipe is one that will become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of tender pasta, seasoned beef, and flavorful tomato sauce creates a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough for gatherings and family dinners. With just a few basic ingredients and one pot, you can make a meal that everyone will love and ask for again. Whether you’ve had goulash before or you’re making it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time!