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OLD FASHIONED GOULASH

Old Fashioned Goulash: Cozy One-Pot Delight for All

This Old Fashioned Goulash is a cozy, budget-friendly meal that brings warmth to your kitchen and comfort to your heart.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Turkey Adds hearty protein; can use lean turkey for a lighter option.
For the Sauce
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Provides a savory, aromatic base that elevates the flavor.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Diced; adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cups Water Helps cook the pasta and creates a saucy consistency.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Enhances richness; substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents sticking to your pot.
  • 2 cans Tomato Sauce 15-ounce cans; provides a robust tomato base.
  • 2 cans Diced Tomatoes 14.5-ounce cans, undrained; adds texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Boosts umami flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Brings herby goodness.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds a subtle smoky note.
  • to taste teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing flavors.
  • to taste teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Uncooked; classic choice.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Cheddar or mozzarella; for creaminess.
  • 1 cup Diced Bell Peppers Introduces sweetness and crunch.
  • to taste teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes For those who enjoy heat.

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Brown the meat by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Build the sauce by stirring in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, followed by water, beef broth, and olive oil. Add soy sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, about 5 minutes.
  3. Cook the pasta by adding uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir to ensure pasta is submerged, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.
  5. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with optional shredded cheese and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 20mg

Notes

For best results, choose lean meats, sauté aromatics well, and always adjust seasoning before serving.

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