Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. This classic American version of goulash is a far cry from the Hungarian original, yet it has carved its niche in the culinary hearts of many. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers over the next few days. The combination of tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and tangy tomatoes creates a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic.
I remember my grandmother making goulash on chilly autumn evenings. The aroma of browning beef and simmering tomatoes would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen in anticipation. Her goulash was always served with a slice of buttered bread, perfect for mopping up the flavorful sauce. It’s these kinds of meals that bring back the warmth of home and family gatherings, making goulash more than just a dish, but a memory.
This recipe is straightforward and allows for flexibility in seasoning and ingredients, making it easy to tailor to your taste preferences. Let’s dive into the detailed steps of creating this comforting dish.
Ingredients
1/2 lb macaroni
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, diced
Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons ketchup
Tomato juice as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Boil the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1/2 pound of macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Drain the macaroni and set it aside. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it holds up well when mixed with the beef and tomato mixture later.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Onion
Brown the Beef and Onion:
While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef and 1 large diced onion to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy goulash.
Season the Beef:
Season the browned beef and onions with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste. Start with a teaspoon of each seasoning and adjust according to your preference. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Ketchup
Mash the Tomatoes:
In a large bowl, add 2 (14.5 oz) cans of whole stewed tomatoes with their juice. Use a potato masher to crush the tomatoes into smaller pieces. This helps distribute the tomato flavor throughout the goulash.
Add Tomatoes and Ketchup to the Beef:
Pour the mashed tomatoes into the skillet with the seasoned beef and onions. Add 2 tablespoons of ketchup to the mixture for a touch of sweetness and tang.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Add the Macaroni
Mix in the Macaroni:
Add the drained macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the macaroni is well coated with the sauce.
Adjust Consistency:
If you prefer a juicier goulash, add tomato juice as needed. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if desired. Tomato juice can also be added to leftovers to rehydrate the dish, as the macaroni tends to absorb the sauce over time.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving
Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Serve:
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. It’s perfect as is, or you can pair it with a slice of buttered bread for an extra touch of comfort.
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a different take.
Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce and chili powder to make the goulash as mild or spicy as you like.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.
Pasta Choices: While macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that is both hearty and heartwarming. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. The flavors of seasoned beef, tender macaroni, and tangy tomatoes meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
This recipe not only delivers on taste but also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients and seasoning, allowing you to make it your own. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and the joy it brings to your table.
