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Every time I make this Old Fashioned Goulash, it brings back cherished memories of my childhood and family gatherings. I can still remember the comfort of coming home from school to find that familiar, enticing aroma wafting through the house—a smell so warm and inviting that you knew something delicious was cooking. This dish was a staple in our home, not just because it was hearty and easy to make, but because it was a family favorite that brought us all together.
I believe good food should tell a story and create lasting memories, and Old Fashioned Goulash does exactly that! It is the epitome of comfort food—filling, flavorful, and oh so satisfying. If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! You’ll feel that same warmth and nostalgia once you create this dish in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in and make some delicious goulash that your whole family will love!
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Elbow Macaroni | 2 cups |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional) | 1 cup |
I love how each ingredient brings its flavor and texture to this dish. The ground beef is the heart of the goulash, giving it that cozy, meaty essence we all crave. The onion and garlic are my little flavor boosters, lending that sweet and savory depth. And then there’s the elbow macaroni—the perfect vessel to soak up all those delicious sauces! If you want to try something different, you can add bell peppers or even swap the elbow macaroni for fusilli or shells.
Cooking Steps
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Brown the Ground Beef
First things first! In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef. You want to cook it until it’s nicely browned all over, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Let me tell you, this will start to fill your kitchen with such a hearty aroma that you might find yourself daydreaming about this goulash long before it’s ready!
H4 Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the beef is browned and any excess fat is drained, it’s time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and transparent. I always get excited at this stage; the smell coming together is just heavenly!
H4 Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes and the can of tomato sauce. Stir everything together so the beef and veggies are well combined. The tomatoes bring an incredible tartness to the dish that balances perfectly with the richness of the beef.
H4 Step 4: Pour in the Broth
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Now add in your beef broth. This is what’s going to create that wonderful, comforting sauce that we love. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, and feel free to give it a taste before adding salt and pepper. Remember, it’s much easier to add seasoning than to take it away!
H4 Step 5: Season It Up
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and mix it in well. I love Italian seasoning in this goulash; it reminds me of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. Salt and pepper it to your preference, adding just enough to bring all the flavors to life.
H4 Step 6: Add the Macaroni
Once you have everything simmering nicely, it’s time to introduce the elbow macaroni! Stir it in and make sure it’s submerged in that lovely tomato-beef mixture. This is where the magic really starts to happen, as the pasta will absorb all that delicious flavor.
H4 Step 7: Simmer Until Cooked
Let your goulash cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and this is the perfect opportunity to sneak a taste. I won’t tell anyone if you take a little spoonful!
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H4 Step 8: Add Cheese (If Desired)
If you’re like me and can never say no to cheese, now’s the time to fold in that shredded cheddar cheese! It adds a heavenly creaminess to the dish that makes it even more comforting. Stir until it’s melty and delicious.
H4 Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
You’ve done it! Dish up your Old Fashioned Goulash into bowls and get ready to enjoy. I like to serve mine with some crusty bread for dipping and maybe a simple side salad for freshness. Just sitting around the table enjoying this meal creates an atmosphere of joy and connection that I cherish deeply.
H2 Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something incredibly simple yet fulfilling about goulash. It’s that dish you can whip up on a busy weeknight, yet it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I often think of my family sitting together around the kitchen table, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. Goulash is a recipe that does more than feed the belly; it nurtures the soul.
H2 Tips for Perfect Results
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Now, if you want everything to go smoothly, here are my tips for perfect goulash every time:
Quality Beef: Opt for good-quality ground beef for the best flavor. I usually go with 80/20 for that nice balance between flavor and fat.
Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Keep an eye on your macaroni so it doesn’t turn mushy. It should be cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when combined with the hot mixture before serving.
Take Your Time with the Seasoning: Tasting as you go is essential. It’s your dish; make it into what you love!
Experiment: This is a forgiving recipe! Feel free to toss in any vegetables you have on hand or try different seasonal herbs to give it your special touch.
H2 Serving Suggestions and Sides
While the goulash is delicious on its own, I always like to serve it with some sides that complement its heartiness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness. You can also serve some crusty garlic bread or cornbread on the side. And don’t forget a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
H2 Leftovers
One of the best parts about Old Fashioned Goulash is that it makes fantastic leftovers! You can store any extra goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might find that the flavors have melded even more, making it taste even better.
H2 FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! If you have rotini, penne, or any pasta shape on hand, feel free to switch it up.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the goulash and store it in the fridge a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove, and it’ll taste as good as fresh!
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash?
Yes! Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
H2 Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Goulash has become a staple in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! There’s something incredibly comforting about serving a delicious, homemade meal that brings back memories of love and togetherness. So gather your ingredients, put on some good music, and let’s get cooking! Your family will thank you for the beautiful memories they’ll make around the table, just like mine do every time. Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, you can count on me cheering from afar!