If you’ve ever stared into your fridge at 6 PM wondering what to make for dinner, let me introduce you to Old Fashioned Goulash. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce into one delightful pot. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. It’s a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, and one of our favorite meals was a classic beef goulash recipe. My grandmother would prepare it on chilly evenings, filling the house with warmth and love. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and every bite is a nostalgic reminder of those cherished moments. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings people together. You can learn more about this topic.

Why This Recipe Works

This Old Fashioned Goulash combines familiar ingredients in a way that enhances their flavors, thanks to the use of paprika and other spices. The one-pot goulash meal simplifies cleanup while allowing the ground beef to infuse the pasta with a savory richness. Plus, the dish is incredibly versatile; you can easily add vegetables to create a savory goulash with vegetables that caters to your family’s preferences. It’s budget-friendly and perfect for those looking for quick weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Ingredients

Note: You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, and feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Steps / Instructions

Troubleshooting / Pro Tips

• If your goulash is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.
• For added flavor, let the goulash sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving; this allows the flavors to meld.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes to find your favorite cooked shells or penne work well too.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Old Fashioned Goulash with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Values are estimated and will vary based on ingredients and brands used.

FAQ

• Can I make this ahead of time / meal prep? Yes, you can prepare goulash a day in advance. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
• Can I freeze it, and how do I reheat it properly? Goulash freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth to loosen it up if needed.
• What can I serve with this? Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments.
• Why did my goulash turn out watery? If your goulash is too watery, try cooking it uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
• What can I substitute for the ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work beautifully in this recipe.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try this Old Fashioned Goulash recipe! It’s a comforting dish that your whole family will love, and I would love to hear how it turns out for you. Please leave a comment and let me know your thoughts, or share a picture of your creation on social media. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes that warm the heart and fill the belly!

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Old Fashioned Goulash

Recipe by recipeia

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4-6 +

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Prep Time

10 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

—

This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce into one delightful pot.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 pound Ground beef
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 cups Pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
• 15 ounces Tomato sauce
• 14.5 ounces Diced tomatoes
• 1 cup Beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 cup Shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

1.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

2.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3.

Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.

4.

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5.

Once simmering, stir in the pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

6.

If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking. Cover until melted.

7.

Serve warm and enjoy your hearty pasta dish!

Nutrition Facts