Old Fashioned Goulash

This Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring browned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with a hint of spice. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until it reaches the al dente stage (slightly firm to the bite). While the macaroni is cooking, proceed with the next steps.
2. Brown Beef and Onion: In an extra-large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook until the ground beef is fully cooked and the onion is tender and translucent.
3. Drain and Season: Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Season the beef and onion mixture generously with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce (if using) to your taste preference. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
4. Prepare Tomato Sauce: In a large bowl, mash the undrained whole stewed tomatoes using a potato masher until they are broken down into smaller pieces. Add the mashed tomatoes and the ketchup to the skillet with the browned beef and onion. Stir well to combine the sauce with the meat mixture.
5. Add Macaroni: Once the macaroni is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the macaroni is well coated with the sauce.
6. Season and Adjust Consistency: Taste the goulash and add any additional seasoning (garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, hot sauce) as needed to reach your desired flavor. If you prefer a very juicy goulash, you can add tomato juice at this point, adding as much as you like to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Simmer (Optional): You can simmer the goulash over low heat for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together further. Stir occasionally.
8. Serve: Serve the Old Fashioned Goulash hot. It’s a satisfying meal on its own!

Note: The noodles tend to absorb the juice over time. Adding a little tomato juice when reheating leftovers is a great tip to restore the desired juiciness. Enjoy this classic and comforting dish!