Old-Fashioned Goulash – A Comforting Classic

There’s something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of hearty goulash. This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The ground beef is browned and simmered in a savory sauce made with tomatoes, beef broth, and a blend of spices, while elbow macaroni is cooked right in the sauce, soaking up all the rich flavors. Topped with optional melted cheddar cheese, this dish is the epitome of comfort food – satisfying, easy to make, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this classic goulash recipe delivers everything you want in a home-cooked meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy One-Pot Meal

This goulash recipe is made in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and less time spent in the kitchen.

2. Hearty and Filling

With ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is incredibly satisfying and perfect for a filling meal.

3. Quick to Make

Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal dish for when you want a hearty dinner but don’t have a lot of time to spend cooking.

4. Simple Ingredients

Made with common pantry staples, this recipe doesn’t require any special ingredients, making it easy to whip up even when you’re low on supplies.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the seasoning, add extra veggies, or top with cheese to make this dish your own. It’s incredibly versatile!

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Diced tomatoes (undrained)
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Elbow macaroni
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Variations

1. Vegetable Goulash

Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas to incorporate more vegetables into the dish for added nutrition.

2. Spicy Goulash

For a spicy twist, stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper for heat.

3. Cheesy Goulash

Top with additional cheese, or stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesy, gooey finish.

4. Ground Turkey or Chicken

For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content.

5. Beef and Sausage Combo

For more flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage to give your goulash a bit more spice and richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve the goulash immediately. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Elbow macaroni can easily become mushy if overcooked, so check it frequently during the last few minutes of cooking.

2. Use Lean Ground Beef

Opt for lean ground beef (like 90% lean) to reduce the fat content, but still get that rich, meaty flavor.

3. Stir Frequently

Stir the pasta and sauce every few minutes to ensure the macaroni doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot and the sauce thickens evenly.

4. Customize the Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preferences. If you like a more savory flavor, add extra paprika, or throw in a pinch of oregano for added depth.

5. Let It Rest

Let the goulash sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve

Serve this comforting goulash hot, topped with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Pair it with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also delicious on its own as a filling, satisfying main dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and improve the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze goulash for later. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftover goulash in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make goulash in advance?

Yes! Goulash is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. It will taste even better the next day.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any small pasta like penne, shells, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

3. What’s the best type of ground beef to use?

Lean ground beef, such as 90% lean, is ideal for this recipe because it has less fat but still provides plenty of flavor.

4. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand, though the flavor will be a little different.

5. Can I add vegetables to this goulash?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini make great additions to this dish.

6. Can I freeze goulash?

Yes, goulash freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.

7. How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Stir the goulash occasionally as it cooks and keep an eye on the pasta so it doesn’t overcook. You can also slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy after it sits in the sauce.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and chop them and adjust the cooking time for the extra moisture.

9. How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to give the goulash a spicy kick.

10. Can I use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage to change up the flavor. Ground sausage adds a nice bit of spice.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Made with simple ingredients and a few steps, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy meal with family or friends. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a batch for leftovers, this hearty one-pot wonder will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. With its delicious flavors and customizable options, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy.

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