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Old Fashioned Goulash: A Beginner’s Guide to Hearty Comfort

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A classic American casserole with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. A simple and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
  • 2 14.5 oz cans petit diced tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded   

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking, preventing uneven cooking.

  2. Cook the Macaroni:

    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
    • Cook macaroni for 3 minutes less than the box directions, then drain. Al dente macaroni holds its shape and texture in the casserole, ensuring a consistent texture.

  3. Brown the Ground Beef:

    • Heat a large skillet over high heat.
    • Add ground beef and onions to the pan.
    • Break beef apart, cooking for 6-7 minutes until browned. Ensure the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, preventing undercooking and ensuring food safety.   
       
    • Drain any fat. This prevents a greasy dish, ensuring a lighter and more palatable meal.

  4. Add Garlic and Sauce:

    • Mix in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
    • Add in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix until combined. This creates the flavorful base of the goulash.

  5. Season the Sauce:

    • Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Taste and adjust the seasonings. This ensures a flavorful sauce, catering to your personal preferences.

  6. Combine Pasta and Cheese:

    • Mix in cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese. This creates the cheesy and comforting component of the goulash.

  7. Bake the Goulash:

    • If your skillet is heat-safe, place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
    • If the skillet is not heat-safe, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish and bake. Ensure the goulash is heated through and the cheese is melted, preventing undercooking and ensuring a safe and enjoyable meal.   
       

Notes

  • Cook macaroni al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Drain fat from ground beef to avoid a greasy dish.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Find it online: https://paularecipes.com/old-fashioned-goulash-a-beginners-guide-to-hearty-comfort/