Classic Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to your dinner table. It’s a one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Classic Goulash is a great choice for several reasons. It is simple to cook, and it uses ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults love. This dish is filling and nutritious while being budget-friendly. Why not give it a try for your next family dinner?
How to Make Classic Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 pounds lean ground beef
3 cloves garlic, chopped
3 cups water
2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons dried Italian herb seasoning
1 tablespoon seasoned salt, or to taste
3 bay leaves
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes, stirring often.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat until it is evenly browned, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 3 minutes, stirring often.
Stir in water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stir in uncooked macaroni, cover, and simmer over medium heat until pasta is tender, 11 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat, discard bay leaves, and serve.
How to Serve Classic Goulash
You can serve Classic Goulash hot, directly from the pot. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, consider topping it with freshly grated cheese or chopped parsley.
How to Store Classic Goulash
To store Classic Goulash, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Classic Goulash
- For extra flavor, you can sauté the onion and garlic longer before adding the beef.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoned salt to your taste preferences. Start with less and add more if needed.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version of Classic Goulash by replacing the ground beef with lentils or other plant-based protein. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on cooking times.
2. Is it necessary to use ground beef?
No, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes.
3. Can I make Classic Goulash in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend together. Just store it in the fridge until you are ready to eat.
Classic Goulash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 cups water
- 2 15 ounce cans tomato sauce
- 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herb seasoning
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt or to taste
- 3 pieces bay leaves
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat until evenly browned, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
- Stir in water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stir in uncooked macaroni, cover, and simmer over medium heat until pasta is tender, about 11 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, discard bay leaves, and serve.
