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Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain off any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the browned beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water), and stir in the basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Once the sauce is simmering, add the elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta) to the pot. Stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, give the goulash a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the goulash just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Comfort: Serve your Old Fashioned Goulash as is for a hearty, comforting meal. It’s great with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for balance.
- Toppings and Add-ins: Feel free to add more toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil). For extra veggies, consider adding bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mix.
- Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why Old Fashioned Goulash Is So Special
Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. This one-pot wonder has roots in European and American home cooking, evolving over time into the hearty, comforting dish we love today. It’s a meal that brings people together, whether around the family table on a busy weeknight or at a gathering with friends. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and tomato-based sauce is simple yet satisfying, providing both flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Additionally, this recipe allows for plenty of room for customization. You can experiment with different meats, vegetables, or seasonings to make it your own, while still honoring the basic essence of goulash. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your own twist, one thing is certain—this dish will bring comfort and joy to your table.
Tips for Making the Best Old Fashioned Goulash
- Use Lean Ground Meat: For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. You can also opt for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Add Extra Veggies: If you like to sneak in more vegetables, consider adding frozen peas, corn, or spinach to the mix. They’ll blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure you don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, so it holds its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: The longer the goulash simmers, the more the flavors meld together. If you have time, let it cook for an extra 10-15 minutes to enhance the richness of the sauce.
- Make It Ahead: Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy dinner for the following day.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless, hearty dish that’s perfect for satisfying appetites and creating lasting memories around the dinner table. With its combination of simple ingredients, rich flavor, and comforting nature, it’s no wonder this dish has been a staple in kitchens for generations. Whether you’re making it for your family or serving it at a gathering, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home as well.
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