Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash! This classic dish combines ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty meal that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this goulash is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its savory flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and cozy nights in. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
What Makes It Special
Old Fashioned Goulash is a beloved comfort food that brings together the best of pasta and savory meat in one pot. The combination of ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful tomato sauce creates a rich and hearty dish that is both filling and delicious. The addition of spices like paprika, basil, and oregano enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 1/2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), water or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir well, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat and let the goulash sit for a few minutes to thicken. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve your Old Fashioned Goulash hot and enjoy this comforting, delicious dish!
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Cooking Tips
- For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables by adding bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced green chilies.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Old Fashioned Goulash! It’s a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe, so please leave your feedback below. Don’t forget to follow us for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!
Cozy Up with Classic Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet, stir well, and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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