Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Ah, comfort food! There’s something about the smell of a hearty, bubbling pot of goulash that makes everything feel right in the world. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal after a long day or you’re looking to serve something that’ll bring everyone to the table, this Old-Fashioned Goulash is the answer. It’s the kind of dish that hits you right in the heart, full of savory goodness that’s both simple and satisfying. Trust me, this one’s a keeper, and you’ll be making it time and time again.

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Goulash

Let’s talk about why this goulash is going to steal the spotlight:

Versatile: This dish is a superstar for any occasion. Got a busy weeknight ahead? It’s your go-to. Hosting friends? They’ll be asking for the recipe. And let’s be honest—sometimes, all you need is a bowl of this comfort food just because.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to break the bank for a delicious dinner. With everyday pantry ingredients, this dish comes together easily and won’t empty your wallet. It’s the perfect meal for when you want something filling, flavorful, and affordable.

Quick and Easy: Don’t let the “old-fashioned” title fool you—this dish is made for modern-day busy cooks. It’s a one-pot wonder, and the steps are so simple you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time. Even beginners can nail it without breaking a sweat.

Customizable: Want to jazz it up? Add some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or throw in a little heat with chili flakes. Prefer a more classic approach? Keep it just as it is! This recipe is your canvas.

Crowd-Pleasing: This goulash is the perfect dish for pleasing picky eaters and feeding a crowd. It’s one of those rare meals that everyone, from kids to adults, can enjoy and feel totally satisfied by. You won’t have to ask twice to get the plates cleared.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting bowl of goodness:

Ground Beef: The heart and soul of this dish. It gives the goulash that rich, savory base and a juicy texture.

Onions: They bring a sweetness and depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. When they soften, they’ll fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Garlic: Just a little garlic goes a long way in adding that irresistible umami kick. You’ll love the way it mingles with the beef.

Tomato Sauce: This adds a tangy, rich, and slightly sweet flavor that ties everything together. The tomato sauce is what makes this goulash sauce-y perfection.

Diced Tomatoes: A little extra tomato goodness in chunky form for added texture and a burst of flavor.

Elbow Macaroni: Classic and comforting! These little pasta pieces soak up all the flavors and make this dish feel like a warm, cozy hug.

Beef Broth: Adds a bit of richness and helps cook the pasta perfectly, giving the dish the right amount of moisture and flavor.

Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning): The seasoning is where the magic happens. A pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning balance everything perfectly. If you want to kick it up a notch, add some paprika or chili powder!

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. The smell of sizzling beef is about to make your mouth water.

2. Add the Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onions and garlic. Cook until the onions become soft and translucent, and you’ll start to smell that beautiful, savory aroma filling your kitchen.

3. Stir in the Tomatoes and Beef Broth

Add in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine. This is where the magic starts happening—the sauce thickens up and coats everything in that rich, comforting tomato flavor.

4. Add the Pasta

Throw in the elbow macaroni and mix it well so it gets all coated in that delicious sauce. Bring it to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook until the pasta is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

5. Season and Adjust

Once the pasta is cooked, taste your goulash and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Adjust to your liking—this is your dish, after all!

6. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the goulash into bowls, sprinkle with a little extra seasoning or cheese if you’d like, and serve it up hot. Take a moment to savor that first bite—it’s pure comfort food bliss.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Goulash

This dish is perfect as a stand-alone meal, but if you want to make it extra special, here are some ideas:

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the goulash.

Garlic Bread: Serve with some warm, crusty garlic bread to sop up all the delicious sauce. You won’t want to miss a drop!

Cheese: Top your goulash with some shredded cheese—cheddar works wonderfully here, adding a nice melty touch.

Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or even roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with the comforting nature of this dish.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop your onions and garlic in advance to save time when it’s cooking time. You can even brown the beef the night before to make things faster.
• Make It Spicy: Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Freezer-Friendly: This goulash freezes like a dream. Just make a double batch, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s a total lifesaver for busy days!
• Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some veggies? Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the mix. They’ll blend right in and make the dish even more satisfying.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with something else?
A1: Definitely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free substitute like lentils or plant-based ground “beef.”

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just let it cool, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully!

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Absolutely! It freezes great. Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Of course! Just make sure your pot is big enough, and you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy, satisfying bowl of comfort that brings people together. With its easy ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll have a dish that not only fills you up but makes you feel right at home. Enjoy it with family, friends, or just yourself—and trust me, you’re going to love this one!

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