There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbling pot of Old Fashioned Goulash, isn’t there? As the aroma of savory ground beef mingles with zesty tomato sauce and melted cheddar cheese fills the air, I can’t help but feel transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen on a chilly evening. This nostalgic dish, with its tender elbow macaroni and hints of Italian seasoning, isn’t just a meal; it’s an embrace at the end of a long day.
In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this hearty, crowd-pleasing favorite that promises to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a taste of homemade goodness, this goulash recipe invites improvisation with its versatile ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic version or throw in your favorite veggies for added nutrition, let’s dive into this soul-warming dish that’s sure to become a cherished staple in your home!
Why will you love Old Fashioned Goulash?
Hearty Comfort: This dish wraps you in warmth with its rich flavors and gooey cheese, creating a meal that feels like a hug from your grandma.
Quick & Easy: With just 45 minutes needed, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner without the fuss.
Versatility at its Finest: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies to boost nutrition, making it a customizable delight for every palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, this goulash has a way of gathering everyone around the table with smiles.
For a complete meal experience, consider serving it with a side salad or buttered saltine crackers.
Old Fashioned Goulash Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – A classic base that provides a firm texture; you can substitute any small pasta shape for variety.
For the Meat
• Ground Beef – Rich and hearty; opt for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter twist if preferred.
For the Aromatics
• Onion – Adds a sweet depth; yellow or white onions work well, or swap for shallots if you fancy a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic boosts flavor; garlic powder can suffice in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
For the Sauce
• Worcestershire Sauce – Gives a savory umami kick; soy sauce is a tasty alternative if needed.
• Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the dish; canned crushed tomatoes offer a chunkier texture if desired.
• Diced Tomatoes – Introduces acidity and freshness; fresh chopped tomatoes can be used for a lighter option.
For Seasoning
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that increases flavor – substitute individual spices like basil, oregano, or thyme if preferred.
• Salt – Enhances overall taste; adjust according to your preference!
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth; switch to white pepper for less visual speckling if that’s your style.
For the Cheese
• Cheddar Cheese – This creamy delight rounds out the dish; consider mozzarella or skip entirely for a dairy-free alternative.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your goulash will bubble and brown perfectly when it goes in!
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Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow package directions but cook for 3 minutes less; drain and set aside to prevent mushiness.
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Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet over high heat for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat to keep it flavorful without being greasy.
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Sauté the minced garlic for one additional minute until it becomes fragrant. This will really elevate the flavor of your goulash!
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Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, mixing until well combined. Let the flavors meld together for a minute.
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Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.
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Combine the drained elbow macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet mixture, mixing thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed.
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Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted to perfection.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Goulash
Cook Macaroni Carefully: Avoid mushy pasta by cooking the elbow macaroni for 3 minutes less than package instructions. It will absorb some sauce while baking.
Adjust Seasonings: Always taste the mixture before transferring to the oven. This ensures that the seasoning is just right for your family’s unique palate.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality ground beef will elevate the dish. Don’t skimp on the freshness, as it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Baking Dish Choice: If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, don’t forget to transfer the mixture to a casserole dish to avoid damaging the cookware during baking.
Add Nutritional Boosts: Feel free to toss in cooked veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and flavor, enhancing your Old Fashioned Goulash experience!
Old Fashioned Goulash Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions, letting your creativity shine in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Replace cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip it altogether for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Boost: Add cooked vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to mix in wholesome nutrients and vibrant colors.
- Pasta Alternatives: Switch the elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like penne or farfalle for a fun texture twist.
- Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by tossing in red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while cooking.
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat instead of ground beef for a healthier and lighter version.
- Herb Variation: Substitute Italian seasoning with individual herbs like fresh basil, oregano, or thyme to personalize the flavor.
- Tomato Touch: For a chunkier sauce, blend in canned crushed tomatoes instead of the standard tomato sauce for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free: If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free macaroni or another gluten-free pasta to keep it delicious and satisfying.
Each of these variations allows you to craft a version of Old Fashioned Goulash that speaks to your tastes and dietary needs while keeping the spirit of this comforting dish intact!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Goulash?
Elevate your goulash experience with some delicious sides and beverages that complement its hearty flavors.
- Buttered Saltine Crackers: These add a salty crunch that perfectly balances the creamy goulash, creating a satisfying contrast in textures.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery aroma of garlic bread enhances the comfort of your meal, inviting everyone to dig in. It’s the ideal accompaniment for scooping up the saucy goodness!
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the goulash.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious side that adds color and bite, bringing a healthy balance to the meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese: For true comfort food enthusiasts, a side of rich macaroni and cheese feels like a cheesy hug and pairs delightfully with the goulash.
- Red Wine: A glass of velvety red wine, like a merlot or cabernet, enhances the savory elements of the goulash, making it a perfect dinner pairing.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream is the perfect sweet ending, balancing the savory flavors with a delightful richness.
- Sweet Tea: Refreshing iced sweet tea serves as a wonderful side drink, providing a touch of sweetness to complement the entire meal experience.
Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Goulash
Fridge: Store your Old Fashioned Goulash in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing for best freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy homemade comfort food even on the busiest days!
Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the microwave on 80% power in 30-second increments until heated through. Stir gently for even warming.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Goulash preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the ground beef and onion mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply brown the beef, cook the onions, and stir in the garlic and sauces. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-cook the elbow macaroni, adding a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients with cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese, then bake directly from the fridge for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and delicious. This way, you’ll enjoy home-cooked comfort without the last-minute rush!
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe FAQs
What kind of pasta should I use for Old Fashioned Goulash?
Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is traditional, providing the perfect texture to soak up the delicious sauce. However, feel free to substitute with small pasta shapes like shells or penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure whatever pasta you choose cooks up nicely and holds its shape.
How can I store leftover Old Fashioned Goulash?
For storing your delicious goulash, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it can last up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the freezer where it can stay good for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it gently to keep that creamy goodness intact.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Goulash?
Yes! Freezing goulash is a fantastic way to enjoy it later. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Label them, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.
What can I do if my goulash turns out too dry?
If you find that your goulash is a bit on the dry side, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating to create a creamy sauce again. Stir well and heat through. If you catch it after baking, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, adding a little extra liquid to moisten it up nicely.
Is Old Fashioned Goulash suitable for special diets?
Certainly! You can make this recipe accommodate different dietary needs. To create a gluten-free version, swap out the macaroni for gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. Always check your ingredients for allergens and be mindful of anyone’s dietary restrictions at the table!
How can I enhance the flavor of Old Fashioned Goulash?
To give your goulash an extra flavor kick, consider adding some sautéed bell peppers or zucchini alongside the onions. You might also drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Taste-testing along the way is the best way to ensure your final product is just right!
Old Fashioned Goulash: Family-Style Comfort in 45 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your goulash will bubble and brown perfectly when it goes in!
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water, following package directions but cooking for 3 minutes less; drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet over high heat for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the minced garlic for one additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, mixing until well combined. Let the flavors meld together for a minute.
- Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Combine the drained elbow macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted.