Old Fashioned Goulash

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of Old Fashioned Goulash. This hearty and flavorful meal has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and satisfaction to countless dinner tables. With its combination of tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, Old Fashioned Goulash is a dish that truly stands the test of time.

A Taste of Nostalgia

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of nostalgia. The aroma of simmering beef and onions fills the kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent around the dinner table. This dish has a way of transporting us back to simpler times, reminding us of the comfort and love that comes from sharing a home-cooked meal.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

What sets Old Fashioned Goulash apart is its perfect blend of flavors. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and petite diced tomatoes creates a robust and tangy base that infuses every bite with a burst of deliciousness. The addition of Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and black pepper adds depth and complexity, elevating the dish to new heights.

A Versatile Dish

One of the great things about Old Fashioned Goulash is its versatility. While it’s often enjoyed as a main course, it can also be served as a side dish or even as a filling for tacos or stuffed peppers. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen and tailor the dish to your personal taste.

Simple to Make, Impossible to Resist

Old Fashioned Goulash may sound like a complex dish, but it’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and some pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will have your family begging for seconds. The key is to let the flavors meld together, allowing the dish to simmer and develop its signature taste.

A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a potluck, Old Fashioned Goulash is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Its comforting flavors and hearty nature make it the perfect dish to share with loved ones. Plus, it’s easy to double or triple the recipe to accommodate larger gatherings, ensuring that everyone leaves the table with a smile.

A Dish for All Seasons

While Old Fashioned Goulash is often associated with cozy winter nights, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed all year round. In the summer, serve it alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying and balanced meal. In the fall, pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. No matter the season, Old Fashioned Goulash is always a welcome addition to the menu.

Putting a Personal Spin on the Classic

While the traditional recipe for Old Fashioned Goulash is a tried-and-true favorite, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. Experiment with different spices, add extra vegetables for a nutritional boost, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your own culinary preferences.

Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of tradition and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. With its comforting flavors and versatile nature, this dish has stood the test of time and continues to bring joy to countless households.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of elbow macaroni
• 2 pounds of ground beef
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cans (15 oz each) of tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of petite diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. First, preheat your oven to a toasty 350 degrees. While that’s heating up, bring a big pot of water to a rolling boil. Throw in your elbow macaroni and cook them for about 3 minutes less than what the box recommends. You want them a tad undercooked because they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
2. While your macaroni is bubbling away, heat up a spacious skillet over high heat. Add your ground beef and those chopped onions, and let the magic happen. Break up that beef, and in about 6-7 minutes, you’ll have beautifully browned meat. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat.
3. Now, it’s time to work some flavor magic. Toss in the minced garlic, and let it dance in the skillet for about a minute until it’s all fragrant and heavenly.
4. The secret to any fantastic goulash is the sauce. Add in the Worcestershire sauce, the tomato sauce, and those petite diced tomatoes. Give it all a good stir until they’re best buddies.
5. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and don’t be shy with the seasoning. Taste and adjust to your liking. It’s your goulash, after all.
6. Finally, fold in the cooked macaroni and that glorious cheddar cheese. If your skillet can handle the heat, pop it into the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the goulash is all bubbly, and that cheese is perfectly melted. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, just transfer the goulash into a casserole dish and bake away.