There’s just something about old fashioned goulash that wraps you in a warm hug, isn’t there? This classic dish has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember, bringing everyone together on chilly evenings. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she stirred the pot, filling the kitchen with that rich, savory aroma that beckoned us to the table. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home, packed with tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and vibrant veggies, all swimming in a luscious tomato sauce. I love how it’s not just food; it’s a memory maker! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this goulash always brings comfort and smiles to our faces. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time!
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash
Gathering the right ingredients is key to a delicious old fashioned goulash, and luckily, it’s super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean beef for a flavorful base.
- 1 onion, chopped: This adds a lovely sweetness and depth.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Any color works, but red or green adds a nice crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a beautiful aroma.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: The heart of your goulash, creating that rich sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: These add texture and a burst of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A splash of umami goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: To bring all those flavors together.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice for this dish.
- 2 cups beef broth: For a deep, savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set for a hearty family meal that’s sure to win hearts!
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Goulash
Preparing old fashioned goulash is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells! It’s straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Wow, the aroma will be irresistible!
- Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to combine these flavors.
- Then, add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s essential to get those flavors bubbling!
- Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to stick!
- Finally, season your goulash with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and you’re ready to serve!
And there you have it! A comforting dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying old fashioned goulash, you can feel good about what you’re eating! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for a serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 5g
These values are estimates, but you can enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s packed with protein and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs.
- Simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-pot dish, which means easy cleanup—yay!
- Family-friendly and great for kids; everyone loves pasta and beef!
- Versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so you can enjoy it again!
Tips for Success with Old Fashioned Goulash
To make your old fashioned goulash truly unforgettable, there are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t skimp on the quality of your ground beef; lean beef not only adds flavor but keeps the dish from being too greasy. If you have fresh herbs on hand, like basil or parsley, sprinkle them in at the end for a pop of freshness. Timing is key, so keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers—nobody likes mushy noodles! And if you’re feeling a little fancy, top your goulash with some freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. It adds a nice creamy touch that perfectly complements the rich sauce. Trust me, these little extras make a world of difference!
Variations of Old Fashioned Goulash
Get creative with your old fashioned goulash! One fun twist is to swap out the elbow macaroni for a different pasta shape, like penne or fusilli—whatever you have on hand adds its own charm! You can also sneak in extra veggies; try adding peas, corn, or even zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re in the mood for a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce. These variations keep the dish exciting while still delivering that comforting essence we all love!
Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Goulash
When it comes to enjoying your old fashioned goulash, the right sides can elevate the meal even more! I love serving it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Crusty garlic bread is another favorite—perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce! And don’t forget about toppings; a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a delightful creaminess. For a little extra crunch, try serving it alongside some crispy roasted vegetables. These pairings will make your goulash experience even more comforting and satisfying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover old fashioned goulash is a treasure! To store it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months—just be sure to use a freezer-safe container!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick meal—just cover it to retain moisture. Enjoy that comforting goodness all over again!
Print
Old Fashioned Goulash: 5 Heartwarming Secrets to Enjoyment
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A classic and hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning.
- Add beef broth; bring to a boil.
- Stir in elbow macaroni; reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Serve with grated cheese on top.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: old fashioned goulash, classic goulash, hearty goulash
