Old Fashioned Goulash
Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that has been a favorite in many households for generations. This one-pot meal is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy families looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner option. Packed with flavor and filled with ingredients that are easy to find, Goulash is sure to warm your heart and fill your stomach.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Old Fashioned Goulash. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in about an hour. This dish brings back memories of home-cooked meals shared with family and friends. It is not just filling; it’s a flavorful mix of textures and tastes. Additionally, Goulash is a great way to use leftover ingredients or pantry staples, saving you time and money. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish for a potluck, or something to warm you up on a cold day, Goulash fits the bill perfectly.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Making Old Fashioned Goulash is straightforward. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Directions
Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Goulash bakes properly.
Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook until it is slightly undercooked. This will help the pasta hold its shape during baking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 pounds of ground beef. Cook until it is browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks for even browning.
Add the onion: Once the beef is browned, add 1 finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook the onion with the meat until it turns soft and translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in garlic: Now, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute. The garlic will add a nice aroma to your Goulash.
Mix in the sauces: Pour in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce along with 2 cans of tomato sauce and 2 cans of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
Season the mixture: Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These seasonings will really elevate the flavors of your Goulash.
Combine with macaroni: Gently fold the drained macaroni into the beef and sauce mixture. Make sure all the pasta is evenly coated.
Add cheese: Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it is melted and well incorporated.
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Your Goulash should be bubbly and slightly golden on top when done.
Cool and serve: Once out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to serve.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash
Old Fashioned Goulash is great on its own, but there are several ways to enhance your meal. Serve it hot directly from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or fresh parsley for some color. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish makes for delicious leftovers and can also be served in individual bowls for a cozy presentation. A dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce can also bring additional flavor to this classic dish.
How to Store Old Fashioned Goulash
Storing Old Fashioned Goulash is simple. First, let the dish cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, Goulash freezes well. You can freeze it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until hot.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni until it is slightly undercooked before mixing it with the sauce. This helps it retain its shape and texture when baked.
Customizable meat: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions.
Add vegetables: For added nutrition, you can incorporate chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms into the beef mixture.
Cheese overload: If you love cheese, don’t hesitate to add more than just cheddar. Mix in mozzarella for a gooier texture or sprinkle some Parmesan on top before baking.
Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some spice.
Variation
While Old Fashioned Goulash is delicious as is, there are many ways to add your twist:
Chili Goulash: Add a can of kidney beans for a chili-inspired Goulash. Include some chili powder for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Goulash: Replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and load it up with extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
Cheesy Chicken Goulash: Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and use cream cheese for a creamier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for Goulash?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. How can I make Goulash ahead of time?
You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Simply assemble it but do not bake it until you are ready to serve. Cover it and keep it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, bake as directed.
3. Can I reheat Goulash in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat Goulash in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Old Fashioned Goulash is a fantastic meal choice for any occasion. It is straightforward, full of flavor, and can be adjusted to fit your tastes. With these simple steps and tips, you’ll create a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings comfort and joy to your table. Enjoy making and sharing this beloved classic!
Print
Old Fashioned Goulash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Traditional
Description
A comforting and hearty one-pot meal, Old Fashioned Goulash is perfect for busy families and is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans petit diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add elbow macaroni, and cook until slightly undercooked.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Pour in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes; stir until combined.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
- Fold the drained macaroni into the beef and sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and mix until melted.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve garnished with extra cheddar cheese or fresh parsley. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: goulash, comfort food, easy dinner, one-pot meal, family recipe