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Old Fashioned Goulash

Old Fashioned Goulash: A Hearty Hug in Every Bite

This Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is a comforting, nostalgic dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Goulash
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni feel free to swap in any small pasta shape
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey/plant-based meat
  • 1 medium onion chopped; consider shallots for a milder flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced; fresh cloves are best
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce soy sauce is a great gluten-free alternative
  • 15 oz tomato sauce crushed tomatoes can offer a chunkier texture
  • 15 oz diced tomatoes fresh diced tomatoes are a wonderful substitution
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning or individual herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to your dietary needs
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground will elevate the aroma and taste
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded; mozzarella or Monterey Jack can create a different flavor
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup bell peppers for sweetness and crunch
  • 1 cup corn or peas for extra color and nutrition
  • to taste red pepper flakes or hot sauce spice things up if desired

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • oven-safe casserole dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Goulash
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 3 minutes less than package indicates. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and chopped onions for 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
  6. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Fold in the drained macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly coated.
  8. Transfer to an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months, reheating as needed.

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