Old Fashioned Goulash

Introduction

Indulge in the hearty and comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Goulash, a classic dish that warms the soul with every bite. This simple and satisfying recipe combines ground beef or turkey with savory seasonings, tomatoes, and pasta for a delicious one-pot meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and filling meal that the whole family will love. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and provides a wholesome and satisfying dinner option that requires minimal effort.

How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 T Italian seasoning
• 1 T Adobo Seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 T seasoned salt
• 1/2 T black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese

Directions:

1. Saute ground meat in a skillet over medium-high heat until halfway cooked, then remove from heat.
2. Add garlic, onions, and olive oil, and cook until meat is fully done.
3. Mix in water, broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, seasonings, and bay leaves. Stir well.
4. Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stir to combine.
6. Cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Remove bay leaves, then mix in the cheddar cheese until well combined.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese right before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash

Serve this hearty goulash hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Old Fashioned Goulash

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

• Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, such as adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• For a more nutritious version, sneak in some extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Variation

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms and lentils. You can also swap the pasta with gluten-free or whole grain alternatives for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this goulash? Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
2. Do I have to use both Mozzarella and Cheddar cheese? No, you can use just one type of cheese or any combination of your favorite cheeses.
3. Can I make this goulash ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the goulash in advance and reheat it when ready to eat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed.