Old-fashioned goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot dish that combines ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings. It’s a classic American take on the Hungarian dish, with a simpler and more accessible ingredient list. Here’s a traditional recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add Pasta: Once the mixture is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened. Add extra broth or water if needed.
- Serve: Once the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve the goulash hot and enjoy a classic, comforting meal!
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables or spices to suit your taste!