Nostalgic Comfort: Old Fashioned Goulash Delight

When I think about comfort food, old-fashioned goulash always comes to mind. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a taste of home that conjures up memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. The simplicity of its ingredients—ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce—belies the depth of satisfaction it brings. I can’t help but wonder what makes this dish resonate so deeply with so many of us, and how it continues to hold a special place in our hearts.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you think of comfort food, Old Fashioned Goulash is likely to come to mind. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it takes just 45 minutes from start to finish.

With its hearty blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, it’s a meal that truly satisfies. You’ll love how simple it’s to prepare. Just gather a few key ingredients, like onions and garlic, to add flavor.

Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Each serving is packed with about 611 calories, making it filling for the whole family.

It’s a nostalgic dish that can bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dining table. With its rich combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, this hearty meal isn’t only satisfying but also easy to prepare. In just 45 minutes, you can create a delicious goulash that serves eight, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

The melty cheddar cheese adds an irresistible creaminess that elevates the entire dish, turning simple ingredients into a flavorful feast. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the spices and add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.

Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood meals or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Old Fashioned Goulash is sure to please. Follow the steps below to create your own comforting bowl of goulash that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional spices (e.g., paprika or Italian seasoning)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring to combine. Then, mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and beef broth, mixing until well combined.
5. Transfer the goulash mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips

For the best flavor, make sure to season your ground beef well and allow it to brown thoroughly before adding other ingredients. Freshly shredded cheese will melt better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, so consider shredding it yourself.

If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers, and they’ll keep well in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain texture and flavor. Enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Goulash with a side of garlic knots or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Goulash is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to any meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. When preparing this dish, remember to use quality ingredients. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances flavor.

Here are some tips for success:

• Brown the ground beef well for maximum taste.
• Salt your boiling water to improve pasta flavor.
• Adjust seasonings to suit your taste; don’t hesitate to experiment.

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge or frozen for three months.

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic knots or a simple salad. Enjoy sharing this recipe with friends and family; it’s sure to become a favorite!

FAQ

Got questions about making Old Fashioned Goulash? I’ve got you covered. Here are some common queries I often receive:

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta.
• How do I store leftovers? Keep them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• What’s the best way to reheat? Use the microwave at 80% power, heating in 30-second increments until warm.
• Can I add vegetables? Yes, incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or corn can enhance flavor and nutrition.

If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to ask!