Old Fashioned Goulash
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash, a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table.
Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal that evokes memories of family dinners and hearty gatherings. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul
- Simple ingredients that come together quickly
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners
The Comfort of Goulash
Goulash is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug in a bowl. This Old Fashioned Goulash is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for both family gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce creates a hearty dish that satisfies hunger and warms the spirit.
As you take your first bite, the familiar taste of savory beef and the slight sweetness of sautéed vegetables will evoke memories of family dinners around the table. Goulash has a special way of bringing people together, making it a beloved classic in many households. This recipe is not only delicious but also a reminder of the love and warmth shared over meals.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about this Old Fashioned Goulash is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The preparation requires minimal chopping and cooking time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need something hearty but don’t have a lot of time.
In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, one-pot meal ready to serve. This recipe is perfect for those who may not have extensive cooking skills or for anyone looking to minimize cleanup after a long day. Just one pot is all you need to create this satisfying dish, making it a go-to recipe for busy families.
A Versatile Family Favorite
This Old Fashioned Goulash is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your family’s preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to enhance the nutritional value or to incorporate seasonal produce. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or even substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter option.
Additionally, this recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings or to prepare ahead of time for meal prep. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner, making it a practical choice for busy lives. No matter how you choose to make it, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Old Fashioned Goulash:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Old Fashioned Goulash:
Brown the Beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Macaroni
Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Goulash!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Old Fashioned Goulash experience, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A simple side salad can add a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the goulash. You might also want to provide a selection of toppings, such as sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream, for guests to personalize their servings.
Pairing this dish with a light red wine or a refreshing iced tea can further enhance your meal. The right beverage can balance the richness of the goulash, creating a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the goulash in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to restore some moisture as the pasta can absorb liquid while stored.
For longer storage, you can freeze the goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option, ensuring you always have a comforting dish ready to go.
Nutritional Highlights
Old Fashioned Goulash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of ground beef provides a good source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its health benefits, including heart health support.
By incorporating whole-grain elbow macaroni, you can increase the fiber content of the dish, making it even more satisfying. This recipe can easily be adapted to meet various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Goulash freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with goulash?
Goulash pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of goulash?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
Old Fashioned Goulash
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash, a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table.
Created by: Daisy Webb
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g