Old-Fashioned Goulash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the perfect meal to bring your family together. It’s easy to prepare, made with basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and packed with bold, savory flavors. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and a delicious tomato base creates a filling and tasty dish that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s versatile – you can top it with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of richness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping dinner for the week, this goulash is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Goulash:

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, and cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

4. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.

5. Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. For an extra touch, sprinkle the goulash with shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt before serving.

6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Total time: 40 minutes (prep and cook time)

Variations

• Vegetarian Goulash: Replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Goulash: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give your goulash a spicy kick.

• Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version of the dish.

• Cheese Variations: Try topping with different cheeses such as mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for different flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. If desired, top with extra cheese and heat until melted.

FAQs

Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat when you're ready to serve!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta, such as penne or rotini, for a fun twist.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, you can make this goulash without cheese. It’s still delicious with just the tomato-based sauce and beef!

Can I add other vegetables to the goulash?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains elbow macaroni, which is typically made with wheat. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased ingredients.

What type of ground beef should I use?

You can use any ground beef, but lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) will reduce the amount of fat in the dish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the slow cooker. Brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Add the liquids and seasonings and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the uncooked pasta about 30 minutes before serving.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños to give your goulash some extra heat!

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s a great choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its delicious combination of beef, pasta, and tomatoes, it’s a meal everyone will enjoy. Whether you choose to top it with cheese or enjoy it without, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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Old-Fashioned Goulash

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Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot dish filled with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni. It’s simple to make, packed with savory flavors, and perfect for busy nights.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, and cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. For an extra touch, sprinkle the goulash with shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt before serving.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils.
• For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Top with different cheeses like mozzarella or sharp cheddar for varied flavors.
• This recipe can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg