Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Its mild yet savory flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
• Budget-Conscious: Utilizing simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal without stretching your wallet.
• One-Pot Preparation: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this straightforward, single-pot method.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to accommodate dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or turkey
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Water
• Beef broth
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Italian seasoning
• Adobo seasoning (or a blend of garlic powder, oregano, and cumin)
• Bay leaves
• Seasoned salt
• Black pepper
• Elbow macaroni, uncooked
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground meat until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: If needed, add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned meat to the pan. Stir in water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, mixing well to create a cohesive sauce.
4. Season the Mixture: Add Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld.
6. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, remove the bay leaves. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and integrated into the goulash.
8. Add Mozzarella Topping: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top just before serving, allowing it to melt into a gooey layer.
9. Serve: Dish out the goulash warm, perhaps with an extra sprinkle of cheese for added indulgence.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance nutritional value and flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your preference.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a unique taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the goulash on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between sessions.

FAQs

What is the origin of American goulash?

American goulash is a comforting, one-pot dish that has been a staple in many households across the United States. It typically consists of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce, often seasoned with herbs like paprika and garlic. This hearty meal is known for its simplicity and affordability, making it a popular choice for family dinners.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the goulash in advance. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Is it possible to use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat elbow macaroni can be used to increase the fiber content of the dish. Keep in mind that whole wheat pasta may have a slightly different texture and may require a bit more liquid during cooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute traditional elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as broths and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

Old-Fashioned Goulash Recipe

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Old-Fashioned Goulash, a hearty one-pot meal featuring tender ground beef, savory tomatoes, and elbow macaroni in a rich, flavorful sauce. This classic American goulash is an easy, budget-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prepping.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp adobo seasoning (or mix of garlic powder, oregano, and cumin)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp seasoned salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

• Brown the Meat – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables – If needed, add olive oil to the pan. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft (about 5 minutes).
• Combine Ingredients – Return the browned meat to the pan. Stir in water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
• Season the Mixture – Add Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
• Simmer – Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cook the Pasta – Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the sauce. Stir well and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Incorporate Cheddar Cheese – Remove bay leaves and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
• Add Mozzarella Topping – Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top before serving, allowing it to melt.
• Serve – Enjoy warm with an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Notes

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Cheese Variety: Try Monterey Jack or Colby for a unique twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
• Cuisine: American