Hello Guys, Austin Carter here from Beyond the Bayou Blog, The recipe we will try today will be soon a staple in the house, same as mine: Goulash.
One summer, I hosted a backyard cookout with friends, and we decided to try something new. I whipped up a big pot of goulash, adding a bit of diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. The aroma of simmering spices filled the air as we gathered around the grill, sharing stories and laughter with delicious Red Sangria.
When it was time to eat, the goulash stole the show! The spicy twist was a hit, and everyone went back for seconds. It became a signature dish at our cookouts, and my friends always ask for the recipe.
That experience taught me that goulash is not just a comforting meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you prefer it classic or with a spicy twist, goulash is always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s begin!
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- Simple: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, with few steps and just 45 minutes of cooking time. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
- Storable: Beef goulash stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it convenient for meal prep. Prepare a large batch to enjoy old-fashioned goulash whenever you crave it.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Unlike many comfort foods, this recipe is healthy. It’s rich in protein from ground beef and a touch of cheddar cheese, without extra fat. Plus, it’s packed with tomatoes, offering a comforting meal that’s satisfying and guilt-free.
Overview: How To Make Goulash?
Today, I’m sharing a hearty and satisfying American classic—my One-Pot Beef and Macaroni recipe. This dish is a true comfort food delight, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
To start, I sauté onions, bell peppers, and lean ground beef in olive oil until the beef is cooked through. Then, I add minced garlic for that extra punch of flavor.
Next, I pour in a combination of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of seasonings, including Italian seasoning and bay leaves. I toss in uncooked macaroni noodles and let everything simmer until the pasta is tender and infused with all those delicious flavors.
Right before serving, I sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese, adding a creamy and cheesy finish to the dish. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious!
Goulash Recipe
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 lbs. ground beef lean
- 3 tsp garlic minced
- 2 .15 oz cans tomato sauce
- 2 .15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups macaroni noodles uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot, then sauté onion, bell pepper, and ground beef until beef is no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat and return pot to stove. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and uncooked macaroni noodles.
- Stir and bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves and stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
Nutrition
Consider These Secret Tips!
- Salt the Water: Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for tastier pasta. It lightly seasons the macaroni.
- Adjust Seasonings: Start with a small amount of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the sauce. Taste and adjust according to your preference for more flavor.
- Brown the Beef: Don’t hesitate to brown the ground meat well. It’s the key to unlocking rich flavor. Ensure it’s nicely browned before proceeding.
- Use a Big Pot: This recipe yields a generous amount, so use a large pot to accommodate everything comfortably.
Variations and Substitutions!
- Meat: Consider using Italian sausage or ground turkey instead of ground beef for a different flavor.
- Pasta: Use any small pasta like elbows, bowties, shells, ditalini, or ziti. Try whole-wheat, gluten-free, or veggie pasta for a low-carb option. Adjust water accordingly.
- Veggies: Add diced veggies such as mushrooms, jalapeños, cauliflower rice, or bell peppers with onions. For lighter veggies, add spinach, frozen corn, peas, or olives at the end.
- Beans: Stir in drained kidney or black beans after cooking the pasta until warmed through.
- Spices: Try chili powder, and oregano for a Chili Mac twist. Add thyme, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, or Tabasco for heat.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Mexican mix, or havarti for a different cheesy flavor.
What to Serve with Goulash?
Store Your Goulash This Way!
- Refrigeration: Cool the goulash and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days (following USDA guidelines for cooked beef).
- Freezing: Cool the goulash and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
- Reheating: Thaw the goulash in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or a saucepan until heated through. Add a splash of water if it appears dry to maintain the pasta’s sauciness.