Old Fashioned Goulash

Introduction: If you’re looking for a satisfying, hearty dish that will warm you up from the inside out, look no further than Old Fashioned Goulash. This timeless American comfort food is a one-pot wonder that combines tender beef, pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights, this classic goulash recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

What is Old Fashioned Goulash? Old Fashioned Goulash, often referred to as American goulash or American chop suey, is a comforting dish that originates from Hungarian goulash but has evolved into an American classic. The dish typically consists of ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s a versatile recipe that can be made in various ways, but the essence remains the same: it’s a simple, savory meal that everyone loves.

Ingredients: To make a delicious Old Fashioned Goulash, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions:

this recipe

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Pasta: Once the sauce is simmering, add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the goulash is ready, remove from heat and serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have much time to cook.
• Affordable: With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like pasta, ground beef, and canned tomatoes, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to prepare without breaking the bank.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even carrots to the dish to increase its nutritional value. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Old Fashioned Goulash makes great leftovers! It’s even more flavorful the next day, making it a great meal prep option for busy days ahead.

Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Goulash:

• For a Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to give your goulash a spicy twist.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamy variation, stir in some cream cheese or sour cream before serving for a rich, indulgent texture.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair this goulash with warm, crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food meal.

Conclusion: This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re making it for your family or for a potluck, this hearty, flavorful dish is sure to impress. Try it today and bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen with this classic goulash recipe!

Serving and Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Goulash

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Bread: Old Fashioned Goulash is a hearty dish, so serve it with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. The bread will help soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite even better.
2. Top with Cheese: For extra richness, top the goulash with shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella just before serving. Allow the cheese to melt into the dish for a gooey, indulgent touch.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: To add a fresh pop of flavor, garnish the goulash with chopped parsley or basil. These herbs will complement the rich tomato-based sauce and add a vibrant touch to the dish.
4. Serve with a Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the goulash. Try a simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw for a contrast in textures.
5. Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving or mix in a dash of hot sauce. This will give the dish an extra kick without overpowering the flavors.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the container to avoid condensation.
2. Freezing for Later: Old Fashioned Goulash freezes well! After it has cooled, portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, label the containers with the date.
3. Reheating Instructions: To reheat, you can either use the stovetop or microwave. On the stovetop, warm the goulash over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. In the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
4. Make-Ahead Tip: You can make Old Fashioned Goulash in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and may even enhance the taste, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Old Fashioned Goulash remains just as delicious the next day and can be enjoyed by family and friends for several meals.

1. Can I use a different type of meat in Old Fashioned Goulash? Yes, you can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

2. How can I make Old Fashioned Goulash spicier? If you prefer a spicy kick, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dish. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef to increase the heat.

3. Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker? Yes, you can prepare Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the goulash? Absolutely! Old Fashioned Goulash is a versatile dish, and you can easily add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, carrots, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them small and add them when cooking the beef and onions so they cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients.

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