Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of Old-Fashioned Goulash with this easy-to-follow recipe. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with robust flavors, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite.Let’s dive into how to recreate this classic dish that has stood the test of time.
Ingredients:
1/2 lb macaroni
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, diced
Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons ketchup
Tomato juice as needed
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the macaroni until it reaches al dente perfection, following the instructions on the package. While the pasta is bubbling away, turn your attention to the next step.
In an extra-large skillet or a dutch oven, brown the ground beef and diced onion together until they achieve a savory golden hue. As the beef sizzles, season it generously with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and a dash of hot sauce, tailoring the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
Once the beef and onions are perfectly cooked and seasoned, it’s time to introduce the star of the show – the whole stewed tomatoes. In a large bowl, gently mash the tomatoes with a potato masher, releasing their rich juices and flavors. Add this luscious tomato mixture to the skillet, along with the ketchup, infusing the dish with layers of tangy sweetness.
By now, your macaroni should be cooked to perfection. Drain it well and then add it to the beef and tomato mixture, stirring with care to ensure that every morsel of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more spices if desired to elevate the flavors to new heights.
Depending on your preference for juiciness, you may want to add a splash of tomato juice to the goulash. While some may find that the rich sauce coats the pasta perfectly, others may prefer a slightly more liquid consistency. Feel free to customize this aspect of the recipe to suit your personal taste.
Once everything is combined and seasoned to perfection, allow the goulash to simmer gently on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld and mingle into a symphony of taste sensations.
Serve your Old-Fashioned Goulash piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired, and prepare to bask in the warm glow of nostalgia with every delicious bite.
Serving Tips:
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of the goulash to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of each serving adds a creamy contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash. It also helps to balance out the spices for those who prefer a milder taste.
Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your old-fashioned goulash with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up the savory juices and adding extra texture to each bite.
Side Salad: Accompany your goulash with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or your favorite dressing. The crispness of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the goulash.
Family Style: Serve the goulash family-style in a large serving dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This communal dining experience adds a cozy touch to mealtime and encourages sharing and conversation.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow any leftover goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Goulash freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Place cooled goulash in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftover goulash, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or tomato juice to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
Meal Prep: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Simply thaw and reheat for a convenient and satisfying meal on busy days.
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FAQs:
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! While traditional Old-Fashioned Goulash calls for ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a lighter or vegetarian version of this dish.
Can I Make Old-Fashioned Goulash Ahead of Time?
Yes, indeed! Old-Fashioned Goulash is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify overnight in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving for a quick and convenient meal.
What Can I Serve with Old-Fashioned Goulash?
Old-Fashioned Goulash pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash.
Can I Freeze Leftover Old-Fashioned Goulash?
Absolutely! Old-Fashioned Goulash freezes exceptionally well, making it a convenient option for meal prep and future feasting. Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or defrost gently in the microwave before reheating and enjoying.
Conclusion:
In a world filled with fleeting food trends and fleeting fads, there’s something reassuringly timeless about a recipe as beloved as Old-Fashioned Goulash. With just a handful of humble ingredients and a sprinkle of culinary magic, you can create a dish that not only fills your belly but also nourishes your soul. So why not take a trip down memory lane and savor the simple pleasures of this classic comfort food? After all, some traditions are simply too delicious to ever go out of style.
📖 Recipe:
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Old Fashioned Goulash
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a hearty goulash simmering on the stove, conjuring memories of cozy family dinners and cherished traditions. This timeless recipe for Old-Fashioned Goulash is a celebration of simple ingredients and robust flavors, perfect for satisfying cravings and warming your soul on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
1/2 lb macaroni
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, diced
Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons ketchup
Tomato juice as needed
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni to al dente according to package directions.
- Brown the ground beef and onion together in an extra-large skillet or dutch oven.
- Drain and season with spices, then add mashed tomatoes and ketchup.
- Add cooked macaroni to the beef mixture, stirring well.
- Adjust seasoning and add tomato juice if desired.
- Simmer gently and serve hot.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Customize the dish by adding vegetables or adjusting spices to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
