Classic Old Fashioned Goulash for Cozy Family Nights

This Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting family favorite that blends elbow macaroni, ground beef, and rich tomato sauce into a satisfying dinner.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

2 cups Elbow Macaroni Substitution: Penne or rotini can also work beautifully.

For the Meat

1 pound Ground Beef Substitution: Ground turkey or vegetarian crumbles for a lighter touch.

For the Vegetables

1 medium Onion Substitution: Shallots or green onions can do the trick.
2 cloves Garlic Fresh is best, but granulated works as well.

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Note: Soy sauce can be a great alternative for a different flavor profile.
15 ounces Tomato Sauce Homemade or canned versions are both excellent choices.
14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Feel free to swap for crushed tomatoes if preferred.
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Substitute with individual herbs as desired.
to taste Salt Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor.
to taste Black Pepper Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor.

For the Topping

1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitution: Consider using Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different twist.

Equipment

Large Pot
large skillet
Oven-safe skillet or casserole dish

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Goulash

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it's just 3 minutes shy of package instructions, then drain.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high, add ground beef and onion, and cook for 6-7 minutes, then drain excess fat.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, and mix well.
Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, then let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Fold cooked macaroni into the sauce mixture, then add cheddar cheese and mix until creamy.
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot, optionally with buttered saltine crackers or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Old Fashioned Goulash brings comforting nostalgia to family dinners, perfect for gatherings and easy weeknight meals.

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