Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This classic recipe is simple to prepare and full of flavor, sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Cook Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Veggies: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Tomato Products: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Mix well.
4. Season: Pour in the beef broth and add the paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Cook Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring occasionally. Continue to cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
7. Serve: Once the macaroni is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Additional Vegetables: Add in chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.
2. Can I freeze goulash?
   Yes, goulash freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. What can I serve with goulash?
   It pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread.
4. How can I make it creamier?
   You can stir in a little cream or cream cheese just before serving for a richer texture.
5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
6. What if I don’t have paprika?
   If you don’t have paprika, you can use chili powder or cayenne pepper for a different flavor profile.
7. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
   Yes, use gluten-free elbow macaroni or another gluten-free pasta substitute.
8. How do I adjust the seasoning?
   Taste the dish before serving and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
9. Can I add cheese directly to the goulash?
   Yes, you can stir in some shredded cheese into the pot before serving for added flavor.
10. What’s the best way to reheat goulash?
    Reheat on the stovetop with a little added liquid, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that is not only easy to make but also delicious and satisfying. With its simple ingredients and robust flavors, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Enjoy a warm bowl of goulash and savor the nostalgia!

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