Old Fashioned Goulash – Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of this Old Fashioned Goulash. A beloved staple, in American households this dish combines the goodness of ground beef with the tangy allure of tomato sauce all topped off with a sprinkle of delightful cheese. Believe me, every bite is like a trip down memory lane.
The first time I prepared this goulash it was on a chilly evening when I decided to surprise my family with something new, for dinner. Their reaction? My husband went back for seconds and even my picky little one devoured it eagerly. We shared laughter, and stories, and that night became one of those memories that this dish always brings back.
What makes this Old Fashioned Goulash truly special?
This Old Fashioned Goulash embraces simplicity and wholesome flavors that both adults and kids absolutely love. Moreover, its versatility allows you to effortlessly customize it by adding your touch with different vegetables or experimenting with various cheeses.
What You Need To Make This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe?
Elbow Macaroni: The star attraction! This classic pasta isn’t just known for its shape; it also acts like a sponge soaking up all the flavors from the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous penne or fusilli can work their magic too.
Ground Beef: The foundation that gives the dish its character. For a touch of gourmet, you might consider using grass-fed beef; its rich and nuanced flavors take the dish to another level. If you’re health conscious lean beef is a choice.
Onions & Garlic: These two ingredients are the heroes creating a foundation of aromatic depth. Pro tip; sautéing them until they turn golden brings out a sweetness that beautifully complements the tanginess of tomatoes.
Worcestershire Sauce: The secret ingredient! Just a tablespoon adds a savory layer, to the dish. Don’t have Worcestershire sauce, on hand? A splash of soy sauce or even balsamic vinegar can serve as an alternative.
Tomato Products: The sauce and diced tomatoes form the canvas on which this dish comes to life. Opting for quality canned tomatoes can make all the difference. When it’s tomato season using hand crushed tomatoes becomes a game changer!
Italian Seasoning: This special blend isn’t just meant for pizza! It combines a mix of herbs that dance harmoniously with the ingredients. Feel free to customize your blend—perhaps adding a bit oregano or a subtle hint of rosemary to make it uniquely yours.
Salt & Pepper: The balance, for any dish. Though they may seem like simple seasonings using sea salt or ground black pepper can elevate the flavors and bring an added touch of sophistication.
Cheddar Cheese: Ah, the melty crown atop our goulash! While cheddar is the timeless choice with its tanginess don’t hesitate to experiment with combinations, like Monterey Jack or even Gouda. The cheesier it gets the better it becomes!
Steps To Make Old Fashioned Goulash:
Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Step 2: To prepare the macaroni fill a pot with water. Bring it to a boil. Keep in mind that we want the macaroni to be slightly firm. Cook it for 3 minutes less, than what’s mentioned on the box. Once cooked drain it well.
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Step 3: Now take a skillet. Place it over high heat. Once it’s hot add the ground beef and onions. Let them sizzle and brown as you break the beef into chunks. This should take 6 to 7 minutes. If there is any fat in the skillet be sure to drain it off.
Step 4: Time to introduce the garlic! Mix it in. Wait for that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen. It will take around a minute.
Step 5: Next comes the fun part. Pour in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes into the skillet. Give everything a mix.
Step 6: Add seasoning, salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Feel free to taste-test and adjust as needed.
Step 7: Finally, stir in the macaroni along with some cheddar cheese. If you have an oven-safe skillet, at hand you can place it directly into the preheated oven for approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Step 8: If not you can transfer the mixture into a casserole dish. Bake it. You’ll know it’s done when the delightful aroma wafts through your kitchen and the cheese is beautifully melted.
Tip:
For a complex flavor, in your goulash, you might want to try browning the tomato paste together with the onions and ground beef before adding the other tomato ingredients. This technique, called ‘blooming’ brings out the richness of the tomato. Adds a caramelized undertone that blends perfectly with the beef resulting in a multi-dimensional and well-balanced taste. It’s an adjustment. Can truly transform your final dish!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this goulash vegetarian?
Of course! You have an option to make this goulash vegetarian. Instead of using ground beef, you can substitute it with plant-based meat alternatives. Use hearty vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini and bell peppers. Lentils are also a choice as they provide a meaty texture and absorb flavors beautifully.
How can I make the goulash spicier?
If you want to add some heat to your goulash there are a couple of ways you can do that. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the beef and onion mixture for a kick. Another option is to use spicy sausage instead of or in combination with ground beef. Just remember to adjust the amount according to your preference for spiciness.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This goulash freezes well. Once it has cooled completely transfer it into an airtight container or freezer bag. Store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it simply thaw it in the refrigerator. Then reheat on the stovetop or, in the oven. If needed you can add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore its consistency.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 15 ounces cans tomato sauce
- 2 14.5 ounces cans petit diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 c cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the elbow macaroni, in a pot of water until it is just shy of being cooked then drain it.
- In a skillet cook the ground beef and onions until they are browned and then remove any fat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir until it becomes aromatic. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Ensure that everything is well combined.
- Include seasoning, salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Combine the drained macaroni with cheddar cheese in the skillet.
- If your skillet can be used in the oven bake the mixture directly for 20 to 25 minutes. Until it becomes bubbly and the cheese has melted. Otherwise, transfer everything to a casserole dish before baking.
- Enjoy your homemade Goulash!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
