Why Make This Recipe
Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of family dinners and warmth. It combines hearty ingredients that make it filling and satisfying. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Plus, it’s simple to make, requires minimal prep time, and uses affordable ingredients, making it a great choice for budget-friendly meals.
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb macaroni
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- Garlic salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste
- Hot sauce to taste
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) whole stewed tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Tomato juice (optional)
Directions:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned.
- Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the beef mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste.
- In a large bowl, crush the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher and then add them to the beef mixture.
- Stir in ketchup and the drained macaroni until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add tomato juice if you want a saucier texture or to moisten leftovers.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash
Serve Old Fashioned Goulash hot, ideally in deep bowls. You can garnish it with grated cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if you like. It pairs wonderfully with a side of warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.
How to Store Old Fashioned Goulash
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in portions for about 2 to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
- For added flavor, you can sauté the onions until they are golden brown before adding the beef.
- Experiment with different spices or herbs like oregano or basil for a personalized touch.
- If you like it spicier, add more hot sauce or use spicy ground beef.
Variation
You can make vegetarian goulash by replacing the ground beef with lentils or beans. You can also add diced bell peppers, corn, or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rotini.
2. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness can be adjusted by changing the amount of chili powder and hot sauce you add.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. You can cook it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
