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Captivating Introduction

If you're on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dish that brings family and friends together, look no further than Old Fashioned Goulash. This one-pot wonder is a quintessential American comfort food that’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Originating from the humble kitchens of the Midwest, goulash has a way of warming the heart and filling the belly. Did you know that it's often referred to as "American Chop Suey"? This dish combines savory ground meat, tender macaroni, and tangy tomato sauce in a delightful mix that’s sure to impress. What makes Old Fashioned Goulash truly special is its simplicity and quick preparation time—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a fulfilling meal without breaking a sweat. It's also family-friendly, appealing to both young and old alike. If you enjoy goulash, you might also love our creamy Macaroni and Cheese, another cozy classic that’s always a hit at the dinner table. So grab your apron and get ready to make this delightful dish that everyone will rave about!
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Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
  • 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned and halfway cooked. Once done, set it aside.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, if needed, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked meat to the pan, then add water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
  • Season the Goulash: Add the Italian seasoning, adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good stir to mix the flavors.
  • Simmer the Mixture: Cover the skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
  • Add the Elbow Macaroni: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cover the pan, and simmer for an additional 30 minutes until the pasta is tender.
  • Finish the Dish: Remove the bay leaves and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the goulash.
  • Add the Mozzarella: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly.
  • What to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash With
  • To complement your delicious Old Fashioned Goulash, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a salad balances the richness of the goulash, while garlic bread is perfect for mopping up those lovely sauce remnants on your plate. For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade would be an excellent choice to cut through the dish's savory notes.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Goulash
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If you don't have ground beef on hand, turkey is an excellent alternative. You can also swap out elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you prefer.
  • Timing Adjustments: Ensure you simmer long enough to blend the flavors well, but be cautious with overcooking the macaroni.
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid: One of the biggest pitfalls is over-seasoning—always taste before adding more salt or spices!
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • After enjoying your delicious Old Fashioned Goulash, you may want to store leftovers! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, you can use a stove or microwave—just be sure to stir well and add a splash of water if it seems too thick. Enjoy leftovers just as much as the first serving!
  • Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this delightful dish into your kitchen. Happy cooking!