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Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash
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Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic, hearty stew combining ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni with a rich blend of spices. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and cozy nights, delivering a savory, soul-warming meal that’s simple to prepare and versatile enough for leftovers and variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef or chuck roast

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or chuck roast until browned and mostly cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. Cook until the onions become translucent and fragrant, creating a flavorful foundation for the stew.
  3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in chopped bell peppers and paprika, allowing the spices to toast slightly to release their aromas and blend seamlessly into the mixture.
  4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes or tomato sauce along with beef broth. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to gather any browned bits to add depth to the sauce. Let simmer gently and thicken for about 20 minutes.
  5. Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and add directly into the simmering goulash. Stir to combine all components evenly.
  6. Final Seasoning and Serve: Adjust salt and pepper to taste and let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly.

Notes

  • Brown meat thoroughly to develop rich flavor and better texture.
  • Don’t skip paprika – it’s key to the classic taste.
  • Simmer gently to keep meat tender and sauce smooth.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance flavors.
  • Use fresh garlic and onions for brightness that complements the meat perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Old Fashioned Goulash, beef stew, classic goulash, comfort food, hearty stew, family dinner, elbow macaroni, paprika

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/old-fashioned-goulash/