Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl
If you are looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul and fills the belly, then goulash is the perfect dish for you. This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and full of delicious flavors. Whether you are cooking for your family or having friends over, this recipe will surely please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Goulash is loved by many for its simplicity and taste. It blends the rich flavors of beef, tomatoes, and spices with pasta, creating a satisfying meal that is both filling and affordable. This dish is especially great for busy weeknights because it comes together in just one pot, which means less time spent on cleanup. Plus, it can be a great way to use up some ingredients already in your pantry.
Another reason to make this Old-Fashioned Goulash is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Add more vegetables, different types of beans, or even some cheese to change up the flavors. Cooking this recipe also gives you a chance to fill your home with the delicious aroma of sautéed beef and garlic, making it an inviting dish for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Making Old-Fashioned Goulash is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This helps the meat cook evenly and gives it a nice texture.
Cook the Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the vegetables. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. This step helps release the vegetables’ natural sweetness.
Add the Sauces: After the vegetables are soft, it’s time to incorporate the liquid components of the dish. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, the tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything together thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld.
Season the Mixture: To enhance the flavor of the dish, add the Italian seasoning. This blend of herbs will give your goulash that classic taste. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste at this stage.
Bring it to a Boil: Increase the heat under the pot until the mixture starts to bubble. This is important, as it will help cook the pasta properly in the next step.
Cook the Pasta: Once the mixture is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Stir it well so the pasta is covered by the sauce. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes until the pasta is tender. Remember to check it occasionally and stir to prevent sticking.
Season Before Serving: Before serving, taste the goulash. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the goulash hot, and if you like, you can garnish it with fresh parsley or grated cheese for an extra touch.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash
Serving Old-Fashioned Goulash is simple. You can dish it up in bowls and enjoy it as is, or you can serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A side salad pairs well with this meal if you want some greens on the table.
You can also customize your service with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs to add variety to each bowl. This makes it fun for everyone at the table as they can customize their serving according to their taste.
How to Store Old-Fashioned Goulash
Leftovers are a wonderful perk of this recipe! To store Old-Fashioned Goulash, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. You can freeze goulash in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove until warmed through.
Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Use Lean Ground Beef: To make this dish healthier, you can choose lean ground beef or even ground turkey. This reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other veggies like carrots, peas, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. You can sauté them along with the onions and peppers.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick.
Make it Cheesy: For a creamy texture, try stirring in some shredded cheese just before serving. Cheddar or mozzarella works well.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, you can experiment with different types of pasta in this recipe. Spiral pasta, penne, or even gluten-free options work great. You can also turn this goulash into a baked dish by transferring it to a baking dish, topping it with cheese, and baking until bubbly.
Another variation is to add beans to the mix, such as kidney beans or black beans. This not only adds flavor and texture but also increases the protein and fiber content of the meal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in Old-Fashioned Goulash?
Yes! You can use different ground meats like turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
How do I make Old-Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker?
To make it in a slow cooker, brown the meat and vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to feed a larger group or have leftovers for the week, feel free to double the ingredients. Just ensure you have a big enough pot to accommodate the larger batch.
Enjoy making this delicious Old-Fashioned Goulash for your family and friends! It’s sure to be a hit at any meal.
Old-Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Increase the heat until the mixture starts to bubble.
- Add elbow macaroni, stir well, lower heat to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 20 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.