ADVERTISEMENT
### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Goulash**
#### **1. Brown the Ground Beef:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, **heat a little oil** over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once browned, **drain any excess fat**.
– Add the **chopped onion** and **minced garlic** to the pot. Sauté for about **3-4 minutes** until the onion is soft and fragrant.
#### **2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:**
– Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **tomato sauce**, and **tomato paste**. Then, add the **dried basil**, **oregano**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Give everything a good stir to combine.
– Pour in the **beef broth** (or water), and stir in the **Worcestershire sauce** if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about **5-7 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld.
#### **3. Add the Pasta:**
– Stir in the **elbow macaroni** (or whatever pasta you’re using). Make sure the pasta is covered by the sauce. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about **15-20 minutes**, stirring occasionally. The pasta should absorb some of the sauce and become tender.
#### **4. Final Touches:**
– Once the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary (you may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper).
– Serve the goulash hot, topped with a sprinkle of **grated cheese** and a little **fresh parsley** if you like.
### **Why Old Fashioned Goulash is Perfect for Any Occasion**
**Old Fashioned Goulash** is a versatile dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions:
– **Weeknight Dinners:** It’s quick, easy, and filling—ideal for busy families or anyone looking to make a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
– **Comfort Food on a Cold Day:** There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of goulash on a chilly evening. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
– **Potlucks & Gatherings:** This dish is perfect for sharing at potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches, and it’s sure to be a hit with a crowd.
– **Meal Prep:** Goulash is great for meal prepping! It stores well in the fridge for a few days and even freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal anytime.
### **Customizing Your Old Fashioned Goulash**
One of the best things about **Old Fashioned Goulash** is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
– **Add Vegetables:** Stir in some **bell peppers**, **zucchini**, or **mushrooms** for extra flavor and texture. You can even sneak in some leafy greens like **spinach** or **kale** for a healthier twist.
– **Spice it Up:** Add a bit of heat by stirring in some **red pepper flakes** or a chopped **jalapeño** if you like a little spice.
– **Switch Up the Pasta:** While traditional goulash uses elbow macaroni, you can use any type of pasta—**penne**, **rotini**, or **bowtie pasta** all work wonderfully in this dish.
– **Cheese Lovers:** Mix in some **shredded mozzarella**, **cheddar**, or **parmesan** cheese into the sauce for a cheesy, creamy version of goulash.
– **Ground Meat Variations:** If you prefer, swap out the ground beef for **ground turkey**, **chicken**, or even **sausage** for a different twist on the classic.
### **Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Goulash**
To complete your meal, here are some great sides and pairings:
– **Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread:** Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, this makes for a satisfying side.
– **Green Salad:** A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the goulash.
– **Roasted Vegetables:** Serve with roasted **carrots**, **broccoli**, or **green beans** to add some extra nutrition and color to the meal.
### **Conclusion**
**Old Fashioned Goulash** is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor—making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you need a hearty meal that will feed a crowd. The best part is that it’s incredibly customizable, so you can make it your own with just a few tweaks.
Whether you’re craving comfort food, looking for an easy dinner idea, or hosting a potluck, this goulash is guaranteed to satisfy. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this satisfying, nostalgic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come! 🍲✨
ADVERTISEMENT
