Old Fashioned One Pot Beef Goulash

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Are you looking for an easy dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Old Fashioned Goulash is a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for busy days. With simple ingredients and a whole lot of flavor, you can whip it up in no time.

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What Is Goulash?

Goulash is a comforting dish with a rich history that dates back to Hungary, where it originated as a traditional stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. In its classic form, Hungarian goulash features tender chunks of beef simmered with paprika, onions, and various vegetables, creating a hearty meal that warms the soul. Over the years, goulash has evolved and taken on different forms, especially in America, where it has become a beloved comfort food.

In the United States, goulash often refers to a simpler, one-pot meal that incorporates ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This American version is sometimes called “American chop suey” and is known for its convenience and ease of preparation. It typically includes ingredients like elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, and various seasonings, making it a versatile dish that can be tailored to individual tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Goulash

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (you can use red or any color you like)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 28 oz diced tomatoes
• 29 oz tomato sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups elbow macaroni noodles
• Optional: shredded sharp cheddar cheese for garnishing

How to Cook Goulash

Brown the Meat

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1.5 lbs of lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is fully browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for developing flavor.

Add Vegetables

• After the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and diced green bell pepper to the pot. You can also include chopped red bell pepper if you prefer a sweeter taste.
• Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they become tender. This helps to soften the veggies and enhances their flavors.

Add Broth and Sauces

• Pour in 3 cups of beef broth. This will provide a rich base for your goulash. You can use homemade beef stock or store-bought for convenience.
• Next, add the 28 oz of diced tomatoes and 29 oz of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. If you want to intensify the tomato flavor, you can also include 2 tablespoons of tomato paste at this stage.

Season the Mixture

Season the pot with 2 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of chili powder, 1 tsp of garlic salt, and 2 tsp of Italian seasoning. For a bit of depth, you can add 1 bay leaf and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir everything together to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Add Macaroni

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni noodles. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. This is where your dish begins to come together!

Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium heat and cover the pot with a lid. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You’ll know it’s ready when the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.

Finish and Serve

• Once the pasta cooks, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully discard the bay leaf, if used.
• For a delicious finish, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top. The heat from the goulash will melt the cheese, creating a creamy topping.

Optional Additions

If you want to boost the flavor, consider drizzling in a little Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce just before serving. This adds a wonderful umami flavor to your goulash.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the goulash hot, ideally with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. This makes for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Tips for the Best Goulash

Store Leftovers

This dish is great for meal prep! Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer bag for future meals.

Try Different Meats

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey instead of beef. For more flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of red wine while cooking.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste!

Why Goulash Is Perfect for Busy Families

One of the best things about this Old Fashioned One Pot Beef Goulash is its versatility. It’s an ideal meal for busy families, as it requires minimal prep time and only one pot for cooking, making cleanup a breeze. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your family’s preferences by adding extra vegetables like corn or zucchini or swapping out the beef for ground turkey or chicken. Plus, this dish freezes well, allowing you to prepare a large batch and store it in a freezer bag for future meals. Just reheat and enjoy! Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or for a quick weeknight dinner, this hearty meal provides comfort and satisfaction for everyone around the table.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned One Pot Beef Goulash is truly the best goulash for your dinner tonight. With its simple blend of ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect one-pot meal for families. Whether you’re using your mother’s recipe or experimenting with your own twists, this dish is sure to become one of your favorite meals.

Give this easy goulash recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that it brings to your table. Clean plates are guaranteed!

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