Old-Fashioned Goulash

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty, one-pot meal that brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels like home. Old-Fashioned Goulash is exactly that—a nostalgic, classic recipe that’s warm, filling, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that takes you back to cozy family dinners, where the whole house smells like garlic, herbs, and savory goodness. This version of goulash is rich with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a tomato-based sauce, all simmered together until everything is perfectly melded. Trust me, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Goulash

• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce makes this a satisfying, comforting meal that will fill you up without feeling too heavy.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already, making it a great last-minute dinner option.
• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Kid-Friendly: With its familiar, mild flavors, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s easy to customize to suit picky eaters, too.
• Customizable: You can easily make this goulash your own by adding extra veggies, switching up the seasoning, or even using a different type of pasta.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Old-Fashioned Goulash:

• Ground Beef: The base of this dish, providing a rich, savory flavor that’s perfect when browned.
• Onion: Adds a little sweetness and depth of flavor to the goulash.
• Garlic: A must for that fragrant, savory punch.
• Bell Pepper: Adds color and a mild sweetness. Feel free to use any color of bell pepper.
• Diced Tomatoes: For a rich, tangy base to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Helps create the smooth, saucy texture.
• Beef Broth: Adds richness and helps the sauce come together beautifully.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like.
• Italian Seasoning: For a burst of flavor and that warm, herby taste.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, to bring out all the flavors in the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: For topping, because let’s face it—cheese makes everything better.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking this hearty, mouthwatering dish!

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat, and then set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and fragrant.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

Add the browned ground beef back into the pot. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.

4. Add the Pasta:

Stir in the elbow macaroni. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Finish and Serve:

Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the goulash hot, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash

• With a Side Salad: Pair the goulash with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is always a great option for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli for an extra dose of nutrients.
• Cheesy Topping: For extra indulgence, sprinkle some extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the hot goulash before serving.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to throw in any other vegetables you have on hand, like mushrooms or zucchini, to make it even more colorful and nutritious.
• Freezer-Friendly: This goulash freezes wonderfully. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop with a little extra broth if needed.
• Meatless Option: For a vegetarian version, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or add extra beans or lentils.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A2: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken is a great leaner option that will still provide the hearty texture and flavor you’re looking for.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A3: Yes, this goulash makes great leftovers! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q4: Can I add cheese to the dish?
A4: Yes! You can stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese while it’s cooking for a cheesy twist. Top with Parmesan for a little extra flavor.

Q5: Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
A5: Definitely! You can add mushrooms, peas, corn, or any other vegetables you like. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning.

Q6: How do I make this spicier?
A6: To add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.

Q7: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of diced?
A7: Yes, you can use any type of canned tomatoes you prefer—crushed, whole, or even a tomato paste for a thicker sauce. Just be sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly.

Q8: How can I thicken the sauce?
A8: If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Q9: Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Goulash?
A9: Yes, this dish freezes really well. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q10: What’s the best way to reheat this goulash?
A10: Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of extra broth or water to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, filling dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, weeknight meals, or whenever you need a satisfying, no-fuss meal. With its savory ground beef, tender pasta, and flavorful tomato-based sauce, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a simple dinner, this goulash will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. So grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of nostalgia!

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