The Best Goulash Recipe

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:

Step 1:

Add olive oil to large pot over medium-high heat.

Add in the onion, bell pepper and ground beef then cook until beef is no longer pink.

Drain any excess fat and return pot to stove top.

Add in garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Step 2:

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves and dried macaroni noodles.

Stir and bring mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to a light boil and stir occasionally until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.

Notes:

Leaner Meat Options: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to make a leaner version of this dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed since poultry may cook faster than beef.

Vegetarian Variation: To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat substitutes or omit the meat entirely. Increase the amount of vegetables or add beans for extra protein and texture.

Fresh Tomatoes: While canned tomatoes provide convenience and flavor, you can use fresh diced tomatoes as a substitute. Use approximately 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped, in place of the canned diced tomatoes.

Pasta Alternatives: If you prefer a different type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells, feel free to use it instead of macaroni noodles. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose to ensure it cooks to your desired level of tenderness.

Freezing Leftovers: This goulash recipe freezes well. Store leftover goulash in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw the frozen goulash in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning quantities based on your taste preferences. Add more or less Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, or seasoned salt to suit your palate.

Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the goulash just before serving for added flavor and richness. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, if desired.

Enhance with Vegetables: Consider adding more vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or zucchini to boost the nutritional content and add extra texture to the dish.

Serve with Accompaniments: This goulash pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Adjusting Serving Size: The recipe yields 6 servings, but you can easily adjust the portion size based on your needs. Serve smaller or larger portions depending on appetite and dietary requirements.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this goulash?

You can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground meat substitutes or omitting the meat entirely and adding more vegetables or beans.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes in place of canned diced tomatoes. Use about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped.

Are there any alternatives to macaroni noodles?

Certainly! You can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or shells if you prefer.

Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Can I freeze leftovers of this goulash?

Yes, you can freeze leftover goulash in an airtight container for up to three months.

Thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.