- 1 lb ground beef (or stew meat, diced)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
- Optional: Bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes, diced
For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- crusty bread or dinner rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir until well combined with the beef mixture. Cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Stir in the paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add Pasta
- Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice). If using raw pasta, add it during the last 10–12 minutes of cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid to cover it.
- Continue simmering until the pasta is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Ladle the goulash into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls for mopping up every last drop of sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients : Fresh herbs and good-quality paprika enhance the depth of flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer : Allowing the sauce to simmer ensures the flavors develop fully.
- Add Vegetables : Toss in diced bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes for extra nutrition and texture.
- Make It Ahead : Prepare the goulash earlier in the day and reheat just before serving for even richer flavors.
Why Everyone Will Love It
This Old Fashioned Goulash combines the heartiness of beef, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the comforting familiarity of pasta into one irresistible dish. Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while its bold flavors satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether served on a snowy winter night or during casual gatherings, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Some recipes remind us how good food can be when it’s made with love and simple, wholesome ingredients—and this goulash proves it. With its effortless preparation and soul-warming results, it’s the ultimate dish for bringing people together. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
Ready to try it? Let us know how your Old Fashioned Goulash turned out in the comments below—and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! 🍲✨
