Old Fashioned Goulash: 5 Hearty Moments of Comfort

Oh, let me tell you about my love for old fashioned goulash! This dish is the epitome of comfort food—rich, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying, it wraps you in a warm embrace like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Growing up, my family made this goulash on those busy weeknights when we needed something quick, but still packed with flavor. The aroma of simmering beef, tomatoes, and spices would fill the house, making everyone gather around the table with excitement. It’s one of those meals that brings back so many fond memories of laughter and good times. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try this classic recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite!

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

How to Prepare Old Fashioned Goulash

Making old fashioned goulash is as simple as it is satisfying! I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly this classic dish comes together. Let’s dive into the steps that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first—grab a large pot and set it over medium heat. Add your ground beef and let it sizzle! You want to cook it until it’s browned all over, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because browning the meat adds that rich depth of flavor that makes goulash so delightful. Don’t forget to break it up with your spatula as it cooks!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your beef is beautifully browned, it’s time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them in and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Oh, the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen is just heavenly! This is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Seasonings

Now, let’s bring it all together! Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, followed by the beef broth. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it bubble away for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Incorporate the Pasta

Next up, it’s time for the elbow macaroni! Add it right into the pot and give it a good stir. Bring everything back to a boil and then reduce the heat again, letting it simmer for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and has soaked up all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

And just like that, your goulash is ready to go! Serve it hot, and if you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. It melts beautifully and adds that extra touch of comfort. Grab a big spoon, dig in, and enjoy a bowl of nostalgia!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Hearty flavors that comfort your soul and satisfy your cravings.
• A one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes taste.
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
• Great leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Tips for Success

Want to take your old fashioned goulash to the next level? Here are some of my tried-and-true tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste—everyone loves a little extra kick, so feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re short on ground beef, turkey or even plant-based crumbles work beautifully as substitutes without sacrificing flavor.

Also, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots when you sauté the onions and garlic for extra sweetness and nutrition. And remember, letting your goulash sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to deepen, so patience is key! Lastly, if you have any fresh herbs on hand, sprinkle them on top just before serving for a pop of freshness. Enjoy experimenting!

Nutritional Information

It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guideline. A typical serving of old fashioned goulash (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, and 25g of protein. You’ll also get around 35g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber. Keep in mind that adding cheese or other toppings may change these values, so feel free to adjust according to your dietary needs and preferences!

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about old fashioned goulash is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to a day in advance, just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave—it’ll taste just as delicious!

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you want to switch things up, turkey is a fantastic alternative that keeps the dish lean. You can also try plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option—trust me, they’ll soak up all those delightful flavors!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super simple! Just transfer any uneaten goulash to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to three days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it up to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze old fashioned goulash?

You bet! Old fashioned goulash freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What to serve with old fashioned goulash?

Goulash pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that rich sauce. You could also serve it with some steamed veggies for a colorful and nutritious meal. Enjoy this comforting dish with whatever sides make your heart happy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your old fashioned goulash is a breeze! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days—just make sure it’s sealed well to maintain its flavor. If you want to save some for later, goulash freezes like a champ! Pack it into a freezer-safe container, and it’ll be good for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also zap it in the microwave for a quick fix—just don’t forget to cover it to avoid splatters!

For more information on meal prepping, you can check out this meal prepping guide.

To learn more about the nutritional benefits of goulash ingredients, visit Healthline’s article on ground beef nutrition.

For tips on cooking pasta perfectly, see this Bon Appétit guide to cooking pasta.

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