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!