Mom’s Goulash

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a steaming bowl of goulash. This hearty dish, with its rich flavors and simple ingredients, is a staple in many households. While I never learned to make goulash from my own family, I’ve crafted a version inspired by my mother-in-law’s recipe. It’s a delightful blend of pasta, ground beef, and tomato goodness, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who crave a warm, filling meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family dinners, and it’s versatile enough to be tailored to your taste. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Extra-large skillet or Dutch oven
• Large bowl
• Potato masher

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb macaroni
• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• Tomato juice as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni to al dente according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef and onion together in an extra-large skillet or Dutch oven. Drain the fat and season with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to taste.
3. In a large bowl, mash the stewed tomatoes with a potato masher. Add the tomatoes and ketchup to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
4. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the beef and tomato mixture, stirring well. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a juicier goulash, add tomato juice to your liking.
5. For leftovers, consider adding tomato juice before reheating, as the noodles will absorb much of the liquid over time.

Tips for Success

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. This dish is meant to suit your personal taste, so feel free to experiment with the spices. Also, be mindful of the pasta’s cooking time to ensure it maintains a nice, firm texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a bit of extra flavor, you can add bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef and onion mixture. If you want to make this dish a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This goulash is a great source of protein and carbohydrates, providing a balanced meal. Remember that the nutritional value can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, any short pasta like penne or rotini would work well.

How long will leftovers keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers should keep for 3 to 4 days.

Can I freeze goulash?
Yes, goulash freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

I hope you love this comforting and delicious goulash as much as I do. It’s a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. I invite you to try it out and share your experiences in the comments below. Enjoy!