Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash
If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this Old Fashioned Goulash is the perfect recipe to try. With a rich, tomato-based sauce, savory seasonings, and hearty ground beef (or turkey), it’s a classic meal that has stood the test of time. The addition of elbow macaroni gives this dish a satisfying, filling texture, while the blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses provides a deliciously cheesy finish.
Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The ingredients are simple and likely things you already have in your pantry, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal to share with friends, Old Fashioned Goulash is always a crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
To make Old Fashioned Goulash, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef or turkey – Ground beef gives a richer, more traditional flavor, but turkey can be used for a leaner alternative.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic – Garlic adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – Onion is essential for adding a savory base to the goulash.
- 2 ½ cups water – This helps create the sauce for the goulash.
- ½ cup beef broth – The beef broth enhances the flavor and richness of the sauce.
- ⅓ cup olive oil – Olive oil is used to sauté the garlic and onions.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce – This will form the base of the tomato sauce.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes – Diced tomatoes add a chunky texture and bright flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – Italian seasoning provides a fragrant blend of herbs that complement the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning – This adds a slight kick and a savory depth.
- 3 bay leaves – Bay leaves infuse the sauce with a subtle earthy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt – Seasoned salt helps elevate the overall flavor of the dish.
- ½ tablespoon black pepper – Black pepper adds a touch of heat and balance.
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni – The macaroni soaks up the sauce, making the dish filling and hearty.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella adds a gooey, melty cheese texture to the finished dish.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese enhances the flavor with a sharp, tangy bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat
Begin by heating ⅓ cup of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef or turkey. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan if using ground beef. - Sauté the Garlic and Onion
Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot with the browned meat. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The garlic should be golden but not burnt, as this could turn bitter. - Add Liquids and Seasonings
Next, pour in 2 ½ cups of water, ½ cup beef broth, and stir to combine. Then, add the two cans of tomato sauce and two cans of diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. - Season the Goulash
Stir in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of adobo seasoning, 3 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon seasoned salt, and ½ tablespoon black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. - Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer over low to medium heat for 20-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pot. - Cook the Elbow Macaroni
While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, typically boiling for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce and stir to combine. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb some of the flavors. - Add the Cheeses
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and cheesy texture. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Old Fashioned Goulash into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. It’s a filling and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success
- Use Lean Ground Meat: If you’re using ground beef, opt for a leaner cut (such as 90% lean) to reduce excess grease. If using ground turkey, make sure it’s a mixture of both dark and white meat for better flavor.
- Let the Goulash Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the goulash to simmer for 20-30 minutes gives the flavors time to develop and come together. It’s a step that can’t be skipped for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the elbow macaroni al dente. Since it will continue to cook in the sauce, overcooking the pasta initially can lead to mushy results.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so feel free to tweak the seasonings to your liking. Add more Italian seasoning or adobo seasoning if you like more robust flavors or spice.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: While you can use pre-minced garlic or pre-diced onion for convenience, fresh garlic and onion bring a much more vibrant flavor to the dish.
Variations to Try
- Add Vegetables: For a more balanced dish, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the goulash. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding the liquids.
- Spicy Goulash: If you love a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also experiment with spicy sausage instead of ground beef or turkey for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Goulash: Add more cheese! Extra mozzarella or even a few slices of provolone cheese will make this goulash even more indulgent and gooey.
- Use Different Pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to swap it out with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini for a fun twist.
- Gluten-Free Goulash: If you need a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the elbow macaroni.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftover Old Fashioned Goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve the next day, making it a great meal for leftovers.
- Freezing: This dish also freezes well. To freeze, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove over low heat.
- Reheating: To reheat leftover goulash, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. You may need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can use ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative in place of ground beef or turkey. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Is there a way to make this goulash spicier? Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even some diced chili peppers to the sauce to ramp up the heat level.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! You can substitute the mozzarella and cheddar for other cheeses like Parmesan, provolone, or Monterey Jack, depending on your preferences.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, Old Fashioned Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance and have it ready whenever you need it.
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weekday dinner, a weekend gathering with friends, or a family reunion, this recipe has a way of bringing people together around the table. The hearty combination of meat, pasta, and flavorful seasonings makes it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for satisfying appetites of all ages. What’s even better is that it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the flexibility of this recipe allows you to experiment with various ingredients and adapt it to your family’s preferences. Whether you enjoy it mild or with an extra kick of spice, Old Fashioned Goulash can be tailored to suit everyone’s tastes. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness.
The Final Word
Old Fashioned Goulash is a tried-and-true recipe that brings together the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and hearty ingredients into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish will never disappoint. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and rich flavor, it’s a classic that will remain a favorite for generations to come.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and prepare for a comforting meal that’s sure to warm both your body and your soul.