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Heartfelt thanks to you, my lovely readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that is close to my heart – the classic, comforting Old-Fashioned Goulash. This dish is a staple in many homes, and it brings back such warm memories from my own childhood, where the aroma filled the kitchen, promising a meal both hearty and satisfying.
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, a testament to the magic that happens when humble ingredients come together under just the right touch. So, let’s dive into this culinary journey together and recreate a dish that’s anything but boring!!
Ingredients
To make this delightful Old-Fashioned Goulash, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1.5 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Old-Fashioned Goulash
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess grease.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until they are tender and fragrant.
- Mix in the Sauces: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Add the beef broth, paprika, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pasta Time: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and chopped bell pepper, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Final Touches: Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Remove from heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving to add a touch of freshness and flavor!
Helpful Tips
- Stir Frequently: To prevent the pasta from sticking, make sure to stir the goulash several times during cooking.
- Check Consistency: If the goulash seems too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Substitutions/Variations
- Meat Variations: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegan Friendly: Swap the beef for mushrooms or vegan ground meat and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like carrots or peas for more nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Just brown your meat, then add all ingredients except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the pasta in the last 20 minutes.
- What’s the best way to serve goulash? Goulash is fantastic on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if it has thickened too much.
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Goulash is a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any day of the year. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to comfort and delight. Give it a try and see just how delicious simplicity can be!
PrintOld-Fashioned Goulash Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Dive into the coziness with this Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe, a timeless classic that brings the comforting flavors of home right to your table. It’s the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all seasoned with a touch of nostalgia. Ideal for a family dinner or a hearty meal on a cool evening, this recipe is a warm hug served in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1.5 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain the grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- To make this dish vegetarian, replace the beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg