Old-Fashioned Goulash: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish 🍛🥩🥒

Experience the nostalgic flavors of Old-Fashioned Goulash! With its hearty combination of tender beef, savory vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this classic comfort dish transports you back in time. This goulash is a one-pot wonder that is ideal for family gatherings and satisfying comfort food cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef 🥩
  • 1 large onion, chopped 🧅
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked 🍝
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes 🍅
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce 🍅
  • 1 cup beef broth 🍖
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste 🍅
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning 🌿
  • 1 teaspoon paprika 🌶️
  • Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (assorted colors) 🌶️🌿
  • 1 cup diced zucchini 🥒
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
  • Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿 (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the Pasta and Sauces: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Simmer the Goulash: After bringing the mixture to a simmer, lower the heat. For 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your preference, cover the skillet or Dutch oven and simmer the goulash.
  5. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced bell peppers and zucchini. Let the goulash continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Cheesy Finale: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven again and let the cheese melt over the hot goulash.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Once the cheese has melted, remove the goulash from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Old-Fashioned Goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any dining table. With its mix of tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and rich seasonings, this classic goulash is a satisfying choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the timeless goodness of this comforting one-pot wonder. 🍛🥩🥒