Introduction and Quick Summary

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. This one-pot wonder combines hearty ingredients like ground beef, macaroni noodles, and rich tomato sauce to create a fulfilling dish that warms the soul. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave comfort food. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; anyone can whip up this delightful goulash in under an hour. With its robust flavors and satisfying textures, it’s no wonder that this dish has remained a beloved staple for generations. Whether you’re serving it up for your family or bringing it to a potluck, Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash will surely impress everyone at the table. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash

Quick and Easy Preparation: This goulash recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein from ground beef and filling pasta, this dish keeps you full and satisfied for hours.
Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it versatile.

Ingredients for Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthy option while still enjoying great flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish; chop it finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and flavor profile; use two cloves for optimal taste.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide acidity and moisture; choose those with no added salt if possible.
Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce helps bind all the ingredients together while adding richness to the dish.
Macaroni Noodles: Elbow macaroni is traditional; cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy in the final dish.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while adding flavor during cooking.

For the Seasoning:

Dried Basil: This herb adds Italian flair; use about one teaspoon for balanced flavor.
Dried Oregano: Another essential herb that complements the other flavors; add one teaspoon as well.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef along with chopped onions. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Sauce

Pour in diced tomatoes along with tomato sauce into the skillet. Mix everything well until combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Seasonings

Add beef broth along with dried basil and oregano. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

Stir in elbow macaroni into the skillet. Allow it to cook uncovered for about ten minutes or until noodles are tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Transfer portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy hot!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Add Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate bell peppers or frozen peas for added nutrition and color.
Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—great for meal prep!

Mistakes to avoid

Using the wrong type of meat: When making Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat. Ground beef is the traditional choice, but using tough cuts like chuck can lead to a chewy texture. Opt for lean ground beef for tenderness and flavor. This choice ensures your goulash remains hearty yet enjoyable, giving you the authentic taste you desire.
Overcooking the pasta: A common mistake when preparing goulash is overcooking the pasta. The noodles should be al dente when added to the dish since they will continue cooking in the sauce. If you allow them to become too soft beforehand, they may turn mushy once combined with other ingredients. Aim for perfectly cooked pasta that holds its shape and adds a delightful bite to your Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash.
Neglecting seasoning: A flavorful goulash requires careful attention to seasoning. Many cooks overlook this step, resulting in a bland dish. Use a combination of garlic, onion, paprika, and salt to elevate the flavors of your Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash. Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly. This simple practice makes a significant difference in creating a memorable meal that everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions

This Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic bread for a crunchy side that complements the soft goulash perfectly.
Green salad to add freshness and balance out the hearty dish.
Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

What can I substitute for ground beef in Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash?

If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef in Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian options such as textured vegetable protein or lentils can also work well. Each alternative will contribute its unique flavor while maintaining the essence of goulash.

Can Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash ahead of time! Allow it to cool completely after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen when reheated, making leftovers even more delicious.

Is Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash freezes well. After cooking, let it cool down before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

How do I make Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash spicier?

To add a kick to your Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix while cooking. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for added heat without compromising flavor.

Conclusion for Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Its combination of ground beef, tender noodles, and savory tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, this dish is sure to please your family and friends alike. With easy preparation steps and various serving suggestions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Embrace this timeless recipe that showcases simplicity without sacrificing taste!

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash

Author: Teprod
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash is the epitome of comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce to create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This nostalgic recipe is not only easy to prepare but also ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will remind you of family dinners from days gone by. Serve it hot for a comforting meal that everyone will love, whether it’s for a family feast or leftovers enjoyed later in the week.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat one tablespoon of olive oil. Add ground beef and chopped onion; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; mix well.
Pour in beef broth along with basil and oregano; bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about ten minutes or until pasta is tender.
Serve hot as a comforting meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 310
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, include bell peppers or frozen peas.- To spice things up, add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe