Ever Wondered What Makes a One-Pot Meal So Warm and Cozy?
Picture a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic, filled with tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all sprinkled with melty cheese. Is it the hearty flavors? The simple ingredients? Or the way it brings everyone to the table with smiles? This classic comfort food is like a hug from grandma’s kitchen, and it’s super easy to make! In this blog post, we’ll show you how to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in one pot, perfect for busy nights or family dinners. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll be dishing out bowls of goulash goodness in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Overview: Why This Goulash Is a Family Favorite
Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic is the ultimate one-pot wonder. It’s a hearty mix of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tangy tomato sauce, packed with veggies and warm spices. This dish is quick, affordable, and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for weeknights or potlucks. Plus, it’s customizable—add cheese for extra yum or tweak the spices to your taste!
- Time Requirement: About 10 minutes to prep, 25-30 minutes to cook. Total: 35-40 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy. Perfect for beginners with simple steps and minimal cleanup.
- Why It’s Special: It’s a one-pot meal that serves 6-8, freezes well, and tastes even better the next day. It’s comfort food that’s both nostalgic and versatile.
- Health Perks: Loaded with protein from beef, fiber from veggies, and nutrients from tomatoes, it’s a balanced meal you can feel good about.
Ready to make some goulash magic? Let’s dive in!
Essential Ingredients
This goulash uses pantry staples that come together for big flavor. Here’s what you need and why each ingredient shines:
- Ground Beef (900 grams / 2 lbs): The hearty base of the dish.
- Why it matters: Adds rich, meaty flavor and protein.
- Substitution: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Elbow Macaroni (250 grams / 2 cups): The classic pasta shape that soaks up the sauce.
- Why it matters: It makes the dish filling and fun to eat.
- Substitution: Try shells, penne, or gluten-free pasta.
- Crushed Tomatoes (795 grams / 28 oz): Creates a thick, tangy sauce.
- Why it matters: Adds depth and moisture to the dish.
- Substitution: Use diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- Tomato Sauce (425 grams / 15 oz): Smooths out the sauce.
- Why it matters: Balances the acidity of crushed tomatoes.
- Substitution: Swap for marinara sauce for extra flavor.
- Tomato Paste (32 grams / 2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Why it matters: Gives the sauce a rich, concentrated taste.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and aroma.
- Why it matters: Builds a flavor base for the dish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a savory kick.
- Why it matters: Enhances the overall taste.
- Green Bell Pepper (1, diced) and Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Add color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Why it matters: They bring freshness and balance to the rich sauce.
- Substitution: Use yellow peppers or zucchini.
- Paprika (2 tsp): Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness.
- Why it matters: Gives the goulash its classic flavor.
- Variation: Try smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) and Dried Basil (1 tsp): Bring herby goodness.
- Why it matters: They complement the tomato sauce.
- Substitution: Use Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (double the amount).
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Enhance all the flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (200 grams / 2 cups, optional): Adds a melty, cheesy finish.
- Why it matters: Takes the dish to the next level with gooey goodness.
- Substitution: Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or skip for a dairy-free version.
Pro Tip: Use fresh veggies and quality spices for the best taste. Keep canned tomatoes and pasta in your pantry for quick meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic is a breeze with just one pot. Follow these steps for a hearty, delicious meal:
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 900 grams ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat to keep the dish less greasy.
- Tip: Use lean beef (80/20) to reduce fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Tip: Stir often to prevent garlic from burning.
- Add the Peppers:
- Stir in 1 diced green bell pepper and 1 diced red bell pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften but still have a slight crunch.
- Tip: Dice peppers evenly for consistent cooking.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in 795 grams crushed tomatoes, 425 grams tomato sauce, and 32 grams tomato paste.
- Stir well to combine, ensuring the tomato paste is fully mixed in.
- Tip: A wooden spoon helps scrape up tasty bits from the pan.
- Season It Up:
- Add 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
- Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the Pasta:
- Stir in 250 grams elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully coated with sauce.
- Tip: Push the pasta into the liquid so it cooks evenly.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is al dente.
- Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Add Cheese (Optional):
- In the last 2 minutes, sprinkle 200 grams shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
- Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely!).
- Serve:
- Dish out the goulash while hot for maximum coziness.
- Health Benefit: Beef provides protein, bell peppers add vitamin C, and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. Add extra veggies for more nutrients!
Assembly: Building Your Goulash
This goulash is a one-pot dish, so “assembly” happens as you cook. Here’s how to bring it all together for a perfect bowl:
- Layer Flavors in the Pot:
- Start with browning the beef, then add onions, garlic, and peppers in stages to build depth.
- Tip: Don’t rush—each step adds flavor to the final dish.
- Combine the Sauce:
- Mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste thoroughly for a rich, even sauce.
- Presentation Tip: Stir well to avoid clumps of tomato paste.
- Incorporate Pasta:
- Add the macaroni directly to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in sauce for even cooking.
- Tip: Stir gently to coat every noodle.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle cheddar evenly over the top for a melty, golden finish.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or a pinch of paprika for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. Scoop into bowls for a cozy, family-style meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic is a meal-prep dream! Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Let the goulash cool, then transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Tip: Add a splash of water if it thickens in the fridge.
- Freezing:
- Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Tip: Freeze in single portions for quick meals.
- Make-Ahead:
- Cook the goulash up to the point of adding cheese, then cool and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat on the stove, add cheese, and finish cooking.
- Tip: Prep veggies and spices ahead to save time.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun twists on Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic:
- Veggie-Packed: Add 1 cup diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms with the peppers for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ tsp chili powder, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Cheesy Deluxe: Stir in ½ cup cream cheese or sour cream before adding the cheddar for a creamy texture.
- Low-Carb: Swap macaroni for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- Hungarian Style: Use more paprika (3 tsp) and add ½ cup sour cream at the end for a traditional twist.
Quick Prep Tip: Chop veggies or brown beef the day before to make cooking even faster.
Conclusion
Your Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic is ready to warm hearts and fill bellies! This one-pot dish is all about comfort, flavor, and simplicity, making it a go-to for busy nights or cozy gatherings. With its hearty beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a meal that feels like home. Don’t be afraid to try a variation or add your own spin to make it yours. Grab your skillet, stir up some goulash love, and enjoy every delicious bite. We’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or photos in the comments or on social media! Happy cooking!
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Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic
Description
Picture a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Goulash Classic, filled with tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all sprinkled with melty cheese.
Ingredients
This goulash uses pantry staples that come together for big flavor. Here’s what you need and why each ingredient shines:
- Ground Beef (900 grams / 2 lbs): The hearty base of the dish.
- Why it matters: Adds rich, meaty flavor and protein.
- Substitution: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Elbow Macaroni (250 grams / 2 cups): The classic pasta shape that soaks up the sauce.
- Why it matters: It makes the dish filling and fun to eat.
- Substitution: Try shells, penne, or gluten-free pasta.
- Crushed Tomatoes (795 grams / 28 oz): Creates a thick, tangy sauce.
- Why it matters: Adds depth and moisture to the dish.
- Substitution: Use diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- Tomato Sauce (425 grams / 15 oz): Smooths out the sauce.
- Why it matters: Balances the acidity of crushed tomatoes.
- Substitution: Swap for marinara sauce for extra flavor.
- Tomato Paste (32 grams / 2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Why it matters: Gives the sauce a rich, concentrated taste.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and aroma.
- Why it matters: Builds a flavor base for the dish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a savory kick.
- Why it matters: Enhances the overall taste.
- Green Bell Pepper (1, diced) and Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Add color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Why it matters: They bring freshness and balance to the rich sauce.
- Substitution: Use yellow peppers or zucchini.
- Paprika (2 tsp): Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness.
- Why it matters: Gives the goulash its classic flavor.
- Variation: Try smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) and Dried Basil (1 tsp): Bring herby goodness.
- Why it matters: They complement the tomato sauce.
- Substitution: Use Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (double the amount).
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Enhance all the flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (200 grams / 2 cups, optional): Adds a melty, cheesy finish.
- Why it matters: Takes the dish to the next level with gooey goodness.
- Substitution: Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or skip for a dairy-free version.
Pro Tip: Use fresh veggies and quality spices for the best taste. Keep canned tomatoes and pasta in your pantry for quick meals!
Instructions
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 900 grams ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat to keep the dish less greasy.
- Tip: Use lean beef (80/20) to reduce fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Tip: Stir often to prevent garlic from burning.
- Add the Peppers:
- Stir in 1 diced green bell pepper and 1 diced red bell pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften but still have a slight crunch.
- Tip: Dice peppers evenly for consistent cooking.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in 795 grams crushed tomatoes, 425 grams tomato sauce, and 32 grams tomato paste.
- Stir well to combine, ensuring the tomato paste is fully mixed in.
- Tip: A wooden spoon helps scrape up tasty bits from the pan.
- Season It Up:
- Add 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
- Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the Pasta:
- Stir in 250 grams elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully coated with sauce.
- Tip: Push the pasta into the liquid so it cooks evenly.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is al dente.
- Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Add Cheese (Optional):
- In the last 2 minutes, sprinkle 200 grams shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
- Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely!).
- Serve:
- Dish out the goulash while hot for maximum coziness.
- Health Benefit: Beef provides protein, bell peppers add vitamin C, and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. Add extra veggies for more nutrients!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Any small pasta like shells, penne, or rotini works great. Just adjust cooking time based on the package instructions.
2. Is this goulash healthy?
It’s packed with protein from beef, vitamin C from peppers, and antioxidants from tomatoes. Use lean beef or add more veggies for a lighter meal.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook until al dente (15-20 minutes) and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils and use veggie broth in place of tomato sauce for extra flavor.
5. How long does goulash last in the fridge?
Up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat only what you’ll eat to keep it fresh.
6. Can I bake this goulash instead of simmering?
Yes! After mixing everything in a baking dish, cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Add cheese in the last 5 minutes.