Old Fashioned Goulash
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Old Fashioned Goulash: A Nostalgic Comfort Food
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash. With its rich blend of seasoned ground meat, tender pasta, and zesty tomato sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a wholesome, delicious meal. In my experience, nothing beats the satisfaction of serving up a homemade dish that brings back cherished memories and warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Goulash isn’t just a meal; it’s a reminder of simpler times when family dinners were a staple of life. This recipe shines for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. It offers a generous serving size, ideal for potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, it’s kid-approved; the cheesy goodness and flavorful sauce make it a favorite among children and adults alike!
"This Goulash brings me back to my childhood. The flavors are comforting, and it’s so easy to make. A family favorite for sure!"
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing Old Fashioned Goulash is straightforward and fulfilling. The cooking process flows seamlessly, from browning the meat to adding the sauce and simmering. Here’s what you can expect:
- Sauté ground meat until it’s halfway cooked.
- Mix in garlic and onions, then finish cooking.
- Combine water, broth, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add uncooked elbow macaroni right into the pot!
- Let it simmer, then stir in melted cheese before serving.
This dish isn’t just easy; it’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious goulash:
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For a twist, consider swapping in ground chicken or using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Cooking Method
Now let’s dive into the steps to bring this comforting meal to life:
Brown Your Meat: In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until it’s about halfway cooked. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, along with the olive oil. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent.
Layer the Flavors: Add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
Simmer Away: Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Pasta Time: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Mix thoroughly and cover again. Allow it to simmer for another 30 minutes, giving the pasta time to cook and soak up all those amazing flavors.
Cheese It Up: Once the goulash is cooked, remove the bay leaves. Add the cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated. Top with mozzarella cheese right before serving for that delicious gooey finish!
Enjoy: Serve hot, and watch the faces light up at the table!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Old Fashioned Goulash is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some tantalizing ideas:
- Garnish: Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sides: Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the hearty dish.
- Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely because this dish is that good!), here’s how to store it:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This goulash freezes beautifully! Transfer it to freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, or warm in the microwave until heated through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Browning the Meat: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when browning meat; this ensures a nice caramelized flavor.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference. Everyone’s palate is different—don’t be shy about making it your own!
- Cheese Love: For an extra cheesy experience, you can mix some mozzarella into the dish as it simmers, then add more on top before serving.
Creative Twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun ways to switch things up:
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Goulash?
Prep time usually takes about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 1 hour.Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you love—shells, penne, or fusilli all work well.Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! You can substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian goulash.
This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, promising comfort, warmth, and lasting memories with every bite. Enjoy every delicious moment!
Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until it’s about halfway cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, along with the olive oil. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent.
- Add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, mix thoroughly, and cover again. Allow it to simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaves, add the cheddar cheese, and stir until melted. Top with mozzarella cheese right before serving.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
