There’s something about the smell of a hearty, one-pot meal simmering on the stove that instantly feels like home. For generations, goulash has been the ultimate comfort food, bringing people together around the dinner table. This classic American version of goulash—sometimes affectionately called “slumgullion”—is a simple yet satisfying dish made with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a handful of spices. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or whenever you need a warm, delicious bowl of nostalgia.
Let’s take a closer look at why this dish has been a favorite for so long and how you can make it yourself. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
The Origins of Goulash
Goulash has a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. The original Hungarian goulash, or “gulyás,” dates back to the 9th century and was originally a simple stew made by Hungarian shepherds. These shepherds would cook meat with onions and spices, creating a hearty, filling dish. As paprika made its way into Hungarian cooking in the 16th century, it gave the goulash its iconic red color and smoky flavor.
The American version of goulash took its inspiration from these Hungarian roots but evolved as Hungarian immigrants brought their recipe to the United States. Over time, it adapted to American tastes, and today’s classic American goulash features ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings that create a flavorful, filling meal. It’s especially popular in the Midwest, where families love the ease and comfort it brings to the table.
Why Old-Fashioned Goulash is a Perfect Family Meal
There’s a reason why this dish is such a hit in homes across the country. Old-fashioned goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a budget-friendly, quick-to-make, and versatile dish that pleases everyone at the table. Here’s why it’s perfect for families:
Affordable
Ingredients
: With simple
Ingredients
like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, goulash is an easy recipe that doesn’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: This one-pot dish comes together in less than an hour, making it ideal for those busy evenings when you don’t have much time to cook.
Customizable: You can add extra vegetables, switch up the pasta shape, or play around with the spices to make it your own.
Comforting: With its rich tomato sauce and tender pasta, goulash is the ultimate comfort food—warm, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Not to mention, it’s easy to clean up after! Since it’s a one-pot meal, you won’t have a mountain of dishes to deal with afterward, which is always a win.
Recipe for Classic Old-Fashioned Goulash
Let’s get cooking! Here’s the recipe that’s sure to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and make everyone at the table smile.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef – lean or extra lean for the best flavor
1 medium onion – finely chopped
2 cloves garlic – minced
1 green bell pepper – diced (optional but adds great flavor and texture)
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes – undrained, to keep all the flavorful juices
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a savory, umami depth
1 ½ cups beef broth – for a richer flavor (or substitute with water if you prefer)
1 tablespoon soy sauce – to enhance that savory goodness
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni – uncooked, a classic choice
1 teaspoon paprika – for a smoky, warm kick
Salt and pepper – to taste
½ teaspoon dried basil – for a nice herbal note
½ teaspoon dried oregano – to complement the tomato flavor
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping) – because cheese makes everything better!
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef and Vegetables:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper (if using). Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
2. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
Once the veggies are tender, pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with all that delicious juice!), Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine.
Add paprika, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good stir and let the flavors meld together.
3. Simmer the Sauce:
Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to develop and create a rich, savory sauce that’ll coat the pasta perfectly.
4. Add the Pasta:
Once the sauce is smelling heavenly, stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover the pot again and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the pasta is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want to take it to the next level, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into the dish for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Serve hot, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Choose Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner option, go for extra lean ground beef, but feel free to use what you have on hand. You can also substitute the beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Experiment with Vegetables: Goulash is a versatile dish, so feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or carrots to suit your tastes.
Cheese It Up: Adding cheese at the end is totally optional but highly recommended. It melts into the sauce, creating a deliciously creamy finish.
One-Pot Wonder: This recipe is perfect for minimal cleanup. Just be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks.
Make Ahead: Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for a quick meal later on.
Nutrition
Here’s the approximate
Nutrition
al breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings per recipe):
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 700mg
This goulash is a filling, well-rounded meal with plenty of protein, carbs, and flavor to keep you satisfied!
Additional Information
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Credits to the original creator. 🙌
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