Old Classic Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works best)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups water or beef broth for extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons paprika (preferably smoked for a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Sauces and Seasonings:
- Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet.
- Pour in the water or beef broth.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer the Goulash:
- Add the bay leaves to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet or pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover again and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adjust the Seasoning:
- Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt, pepper, or a bit more Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top of the goulash.
- Cover and let the cheese melt for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Goulash:
- Meat Options: If you want to change up the flavor, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a more traditional European twist, try using ground pork or a mix of beef and pork.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for more texture and flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: If you love a cheesy goulash, stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella directly into the pot before serving.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Goulash pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables on the side.
This Old Classic Fashioned Goulash is a nostalgic, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and rich tomato sauce makes it a timeless favorite that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this goulash is sure to be a hit.
