Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that many people cherish. With a mix of macaroni, ground beef, and flavorful spices, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. The rich flavors come together beautifully, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion.
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Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple, but it also brings back the nostalgia of home-cooked meals. It is budget-friendly and can feed a crowd with minimal effort. Old Fashioned Goulash is a complete meal in one pot, combining protein, carbs, and vegetables. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies if you want!
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb macaroni
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Chili powder, to taste
- Hot sauce, to taste
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) whole stewed tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Tomato juice (optional)
Directions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions until it is al dente.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the beef and onion mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste.
- In a large bowl, crush the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher.
- Add the crushed tomatoes along with the juices to the beef mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup.
- Add the drained macaroni to the pot and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- If you prefer a saucier texture, add tomato juice at this stage.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash
Serve Old Fashioned Goulash hot in bowls. It can be topped with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Old Fashioned Goulash
To store leftovers, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
- To add more veggies, consider mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when cooking the beef.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, especially if you like it spicier.
- For a thicker sauce, let the goulash simmer for a bit longer after adding the macaroni.
Variation
You can customize Old Fashioned Goulash by using chicken or turkey instead of ground beef. Additionally, some people like to include cheese in the mix, creating a cheesier, melt-in-your-mouth dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of Goulash?
Yes! You can skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I make Goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! Goulash tastes great when made in advance. Just reheat it before serving.
Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
Pasta
- ½ lb macaroni Cook according to package directions.
Meat and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs ground beef Use a lean variety if preferred.
- 1 large onion, diced Provides flavor and texture.
Seasonings
- Garlic salt, to taste Adjust to desired flavor.
- Pepper, to taste Adjust to desired flavor.
- Chili powder, to taste Adjust to desired heat level.
- Hot sauce, to taste Add for extra spiciness.
Tomato Base
- 2 cans whole stewed tomatoes, with juices (14.5 oz each) Crush before adding.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup Adds sweetness and flavor.
- Tomato juice (optional) Use if a saucier texture is desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions until it is al dente.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess grease from the skillet.
Cooking
- Season the beef and onion mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste.
- In a large bowl, crush the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher.
- Add the crushed tomatoes along with the juices to the beef mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup.
- Add the drained macaroni to the pot and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- If you prefer a saucier texture, add tomato juice at this stage.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy!
