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### Directions
1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
2. **Sauté the Onions and Garlic:**
Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. **Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:**
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, letting the flavors meld together for about 5 minutes.
4. **Add the Beef Broth and Pasta:**
Pour in the beef broth (or water) and stir in the elbow macaroni. Bring everything to a simmer again, then cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. **Check for Seasoning:**
Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
6. **Optional Cheesy Topping:**
If you like your goulash extra cheesy, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash and cover the pot for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts into the sauce.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Serve the goulash hot, and enjoy the comforting combination of tender pasta, flavorful beef, and rich tomato sauce. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
### Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Goulash
– **Use Quality Beef:** For the best flavor, use ground beef with a little fat (80/20 ratio) to keep the goulash juicy and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
– **Customize the Veggies:** Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even peas for added texture and nutrition. You can sauté them with the onions for a more robust flavor.
– **Make It Spicy:** If you prefer a spicier goulash, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.
– **Leftovers:** This goulash recipe is perfect for leftovers! Store any extra goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
– **One-Pot Meal:** One of the best things about goulash is that it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pan, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.
### Why Old-Fashioned Goulash is Perfect for Any Occasion
**Old-Fashioned Goulash** is a versatile dish that works well for a variety of occasions:
– **Family Dinners:** Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a dish that’s sure to please picky eaters, goulash is a hit. It’s filling, comforting, and easy to make in large batches.
– **Weeknight Meals:** After a long day, this is the kind of meal that comes together quickly, without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a satisfying dinner that doesn’t take much time to prepare.
– **Potlucks and Gatherings:** Goulash is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or family gathering. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make in large quantities, and everyone loves it.
– **Comfort Food for All Ages:** Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this hearty dish is universally loved. Its flavors are familiar, warm, and comforting, making it perfect for cozy nights in.
### Final Thoughts
**Old-Fashioned Goulash** is the epitome of comfort food, and this recipe is one that will become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of tender pasta, seasoned beef, and flavorful tomato sauce creates a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough for gatherings and family dinners. With just a few basic ingredients and one pot, you can make a meal that everyone will love and ask for again. Whether you’ve had goulash before or you’re making it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time!
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