Easy Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe for Comforting Homemade Meals

Easy Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe for Comforting Homemade Meals

Have you ever craved a warm, hearty meal that instantly feels like a comforting hug on a chilly evening? Many people think making traditional goulash is complicated or time-consuming, but what if there was a way to whip up a classic, easy old fashioned goulash recipe right in your kitchen without any fuss? This beloved dish has stood the test of time as a go-to for homemade comfort food, blending simple, wholesome ingredients into a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.

In this post, we’ll dive into an easy old fashioned goulash recipe designed for simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re a weeknight cook looking to bring a taste of nostalgia to the table or a comfort food lover eager for an approachable dish, this recipe will tick all the boxes. Let’s explore the ingredients, timing, tips, and tricks to help you master this classic.

—

Ingredients List

To bring this comforting old fashioned goulash to life, gather the following ingredients. If you’re looking to tweak it to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability, I’ll share substitutions that don’t compromise on flavor.

– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onion)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 1 1/2 cups water or beef broth (broth adds more depth)
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, but adds umami)
– 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Substitutions and Alternatives:
– For a gluten-free version, swap elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or small rice shapes.
– To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
– If you want to reduce sodium, use no-salt-added tomato sauce and broth, and adjust seasonings accordingly.
– For a dairy-free option, omit cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

—

Timing

Getting the timing just right in homemade goulash is key for perfectly tender beef and al dente pasta. Here’s a breakdown to keep your meal stress-free yet delicious:

– Preparation Time: 10 minutes (chopping onions, garlic, and measuring ingredients)
– Cooking Time: 25 minutes (browning meat, simmering the sauce, cooking pasta)
– Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Picture aromatic onions caramelizing in the pan, the rich scent of paprika blending with simmering tomatoes, and pasta softening but still with a firm bite—this is comfort food at its finest in under 40 minutes.

—

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once it starts to brown, stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent and the meat is fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Chef’s tip: Browning the meat well builds rich flavor — don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Seasonings, and Liquid

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine, then add the water or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Stir in Pasta and Simmer

Add elbow macaroni to the pot, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite, about 12-15 minutes.

Chef’s tip: If the mixture becomes too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth or water.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

Once the macaroni is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover for a few minutes to let the cheese melt into the hot goulash. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for color and freshness.

—

Nutritional Information

A hearty bowl of this classic recipe fuels you with a well-rounded mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins — here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (serves 4):

– Calories: 400-450 kcal
– Protein: 28 grams
– Carbohydrates: 35 grams
– Fat: 15 grams
– Fiber: 4 grams
– Sodium: 600-800 mg (varies depending on broth and canned ingredients)
– Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron: Present in good amounts due to tomatoes and paprika

—

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to make this comforting dish a bit lighter or nutrient-dense? Try these simple swaps:

– Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to cut down on saturated fat.
– Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra vitamins and fiber.
– Substitute whole wheat or legume-based pasta to boost fiber and protein content.
– Skip the cheese or use reduced-fat cheese to lower calories without sacrificing creaminess.
– Replace some or all of the water with low-sodium homemade vegetable broth for even more nutrients.

—

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this easy dish into a complete meal:

– Serve with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
– Add a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
– For a seasonal twist, top with roasted mushrooms or caramelized onions.
– In colder months, pair with steamed green beans or roasted winter squash for extra warmth.
– A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang.

—

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking Pasta: Leaving elbow macaroni in the pot too long can turn it mushy. Keep an eye on texture and remove from heat promptly.
– Skipping Browning: Neglecting to properly brown the meat levels down flavor complexity significantly.
– Not Stirring Enough: Pasta can stick or clump if you forget to stir occasionally during simmering.
– Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth or water dilutes the sauce, resulting in a watery goulash.
– Underseasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning generously — the right balance of salt, pepper, and paprika defines the taste.

—

Storing Tips

This dish stores beautifully for leftovers! Follow these tips:

– Let the goulash cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
– Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
– When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture and prevent dryness.
– You can also freeze goulash for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
– Avoid refreezing to maintain quality and texture.

—

Conclusion

This easy old fashioned goulash recipe is your new go-to for comforting, homemade meals that bring simplicity and satisfying flavors to your table. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a wholesome dish perfect for any night of the week. Ready to try it? Share your experience or any recipe twists in the comments below — I love hearing from fellow comfort food fans!

—

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
A: Small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or even broken spaghetti work well. Rice or barley also make excellent substitutes for a gluten-free twist.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: Traditionally, this dish is mildly seasoned. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family meal or meal prepping.

Q: Can I add vegetables directly to the goulash?
A: Yes! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added when you sauté the onions for an extra nutrient boost.

—

For those interested in exploring more comforting homemade classics, check out my Hearty Beef Stew Recipe or Classic Chicken Pot Pie — perfect companions for cozy dinners. Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter for weekly recipes and kitchen tips!

Happy cooking!