Cozy Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe: A Heartwarming Classic

Crafting an old fashioned goulash recipe brings memories of hearty kitchen traditions passed down through generations.

Warmth and comfort define this classic Hungarian dish that warms souls on chilly evenings.

Robust flavors blend perfectly in a single pot, creating a meal that speaks directly to your hunger.

Tender beef chunks simmer slowly with paprika-rich sauce, developing deep, complex tastes.

Rustic ingredients come together seamlessly, promising a culinary experience that connects you with authentic cooking methods.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this simple yet magnificent meal.

You’ll want to savor every delicious bite of this timeless comfort food.

FAQs

• Is goulash a Hungarian dish?

Yes, goulash originated in Hungary as a hearty beef stew cooked by shepherds, but this American version is a pasta-based casserole that’s more like a comforting one-pot meal.

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different twist.

• What makes this goulash different from traditional Hungarian goulash?

Unlike the traditional Hungarian stew, this American-style goulash is a pasta dish with ground beef, tomatoes, and seasonings, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Old Fashioned Goulash: What Sets It Apart

• Unlock Quick Comfort: Dive into a mouthwatering snack that transforms simple biscuit dough into a pizza-packed delight ready in minutes with minimal kitchen effort.
• Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Swap pepperoni for ham, add different cheeses, or toss in extra veggies to create personalized pizza bombs that satisfy every family member's taste preferences.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: These handheld treats are perfect for game nights, after-school snacks, or casual gatherings where everyone wants something delicious and fun to eat.
• Minimal Cleanup Magic: Using an air fryer means less oil, faster cooking, and super easy cleaning – no messy pans or complicated cooking techniques required.

Ingredients For Old Fashioned Goulash

• Ground Beef: A hearty base that provides rich flavor and substantial texture to the goulash.

• Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that captures sauce and adds comforting substance to the dish.

• Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce: Fresh and concentrated tomato flavors that create a robust and tangy sauce foundation.
• Beef Broth: Adds depth and enhances the overall meaty profile of the goulash.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a fragrant and savory base that builds complexity in the dish.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Contributes a tangy and umami depth to the goulash.
• Shredded Cheese: Optional topping that adds creamy richness and a melty texture.

• Salt, Pepper, Other Seasonings: Enhance and balance the overall flavor profile of the goulash.

Preparation Steps For Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Brown The Beef

Heat a spacious pot over medium temperature. Crumble ground beef and cook until it turns golden brown.

Carefully drain any remaining liquid fat from the meat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic into the pot.

Sauté until vegetables become translucent and release their delightful fragrance.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Sauce

• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Directly In Sauce

Pour uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure pasta is evenly coated.

Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 5: Optional Cheese Finish

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot goulash.

Let cheese melt slightly before serving. Enjoy this hearty, soul-warming meal straight from the pot.

Tips For Old Fashioned Goulash

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier version of the classic goulash.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to let flavors meld and sauce thicken naturally.
• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.
• Enhance the dish's nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or zucchini during the onion cooking stage.

Flavor Options For Old Fashioned Goulash

• Spicy Southwest Goulash: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken, add diced green chiles, use pepper jack cheese, and incorporate cumin and chili powder for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Veggie Goulash: Swap ground beef for plant-based protein crumbles, include zucchini and eggplant, use feta cheese, and season with oregano and basil for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Hearty Mushroom Goulash: Substitute half the ground beef with mixed wild mushrooms, add dried porcini for depth, use a blend of Swiss and Gruyère cheeses, and incorporate fresh thyme for an earthy variation.

Suggested Complements For Old Fashioned Goulash

• Hearty Family Feast: Serve this goulash in deep ceramic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Rustic Comfort Platter: Pair the goulash with warm, crusty garlic bread or buttered toast to soak up the rich, savory sauce and add extra texture.
• Cozy Side Companion: Add a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef and provide a light, crisp contrast to the warm dish.
• Meal Prep Champion: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunch options during the week, ensuring a delicious and satisfying midday meal that reheats perfectly.

Storage Recommendations For Old Fashioned Goulash

• Transfer leftover goulash to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Pour cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw frozen goulash in the refrigerator overnight. Warm in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Divide goulash into individual portions in sealed containers for quick grab-and-go lunches or dinners during the week. Keeps well in the refrigerator and maintains great flavor.

Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hungarian goulash embodies hearty comfort with tender beef simmered in paprika-rich sauce. Robust flavors and classic ingredients create a soul-warming meal you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Sear ground beef in a spacious pot over medium-high heat until thoroughly caramelized and no pink remains, carefully draining accumulated fat.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and aromatic, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, blending spices like paprika, oregano, and black pepper for robust flavor profile.
4. Introduce uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering liquid, ensuring complete submersion and even distribution throughout the mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and allow goulash to gently simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure consistent cooking.
6. Once pasta reaches perfect al dente texture, remove from heat and optionally fold in shredded cheddar cheese for enhanced creaminess.
7. Let the goulash rest for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken before serving hot.

Notes

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
• Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier, fiber-rich version of the classic dish.
• Create a gluten-free alternative by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free elbow macaroni.
• Enhance depth of flavor by adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of smoked paprika during cooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Hungarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 357 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 825 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg