Old-Fashioned Goulash is a timeless comfort food that brings nostalgia and warmth to the table. This hearty one-pot meal is loaded with tender ground meat, flavorful tomato sauce, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or whipping it up for a casual gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with flavors that get better with each bite!
Ingredients:
For the Base:
• 2 lbs ground beef or turkey (choose based on your preference for a lighter or richer flavor)
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic (for an aromatic, savory base)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth to the dish)
Liquids for Cooking:
• 2 ½ cups water (for cooking the pasta)
• ½ cup beef broth (for added richness and depth)
• ⅓ cup olive oil (to enhance the sautéed flavors)
Tomato Flavor:
• 2 (15-ounce) cans of tomato sauce (smooth and thick for a rich base)
• 2 (15-ounce) cans of diced tomatoes (for texture and bursts of flavor)
Seasonings:
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs for that classic, comforting taste)
• 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning (for a savory kick)
• 3 bay leaves (adds subtle earthy notes)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt (to enhance the flavors)
• ½ tablespoon black pepper (for a gentle spice)
Pasta and Cheese:
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked (the perfect pasta shape to soak up the sauce)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey, cheesy topping)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (adds sharp, cheesy goodness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat:
• Begin by heating a large skillet or deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s browned and halfway cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it off to keep the dish light. Set the cooked meat aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
• In the same pan, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step lays the foundation of flavor for the goulash.
3. Combine Ingredients:
• Return the partially cooked meat to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and onions. Pour in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Season the Goulash:
• Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and seasonings. This is where the dish gets its bold, layered flavor.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
• Cover the skillet or pot and lower the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the liquid starts to develop a rich, tomato-based sauce.
6. Cook the Pasta:
• Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot again and let the goulash simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. As the pasta cooks, it will absorb the flavorful sauce, becoming tender and delicious.
7. Add the Cheese:
• Once the pasta is tender, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and cheesy consistency.
8. Finish with Mozzarella:
• For the finishing touch, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the goulash. Cover the pot for a few minutes, allowing the mozzarella to melt slightly and create a gooey, irresistible topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• It’s a One-Pot Wonder: All the ingredients come together in a single skillet or pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfect Comfort Food: The rich tomato base, tender pasta, and gooey cheese create a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Use ground beef for a classic flavor or swap it with turkey for a leaner option. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach to make it even more nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or a crowd, this dish is universally loved and can easily be doubled to serve more people.
Serving Tips:
• Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Sides to Pair: Serve with a slice of crusty garlic bread or a side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the goulash.
• Make-Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Custom Toppings: Top with sour cream, extra cheese, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
A Dish to Remember:
This Old-Fashioned Goulash is the ultimate comfort meal that brings the family together. Its simplicity, combined with its incredible flavor, makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s hearty, flavorful, and customizable, with a nostalgic charm that makes every bite feel like home. So, grab a big spoon and dig into this warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish—you won’t be disappointed!
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