Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring plenty of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni for about 3 minutes less than the box instructions. This ensures the macaroni is slightly undercooked so it doesn’t become mushy once baked in the sauce. After cooking, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
Next, heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, breaking apart the beef as it cooks. You want the beef to be browned and the onions to soften. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Now, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. This infuses the oil with garlic’s savory aroma, setting the base for the sauce.
Next, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir the mixture well to combine everything. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Adjust Flavor
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. The seasoning should be balanced, with a savory depth from the Worcestershire sauce and the sweetness from the tomatoes.
Step 5: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese
Now, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well, ensuring the macaroni is coated in the sauce and the cheese starts to melt into the mixture.
Step 6: Bake the Goulash
If your skillet is oven-safe, simply place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the goulash mixture into a casserole dish before baking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the goulash is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired. This Old Fashioned Goulash is perfect when paired with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Old Fashioned Goulash
To ensure your goulash turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
Cook pasta al dente: Since the goulash will bake in the oven, it’s important to slightly undercook the macaroni so it doesn’t become mushy.
Use quality beef: The ground beef is the star of the dish, so using fresh, high-quality beef will make a noticeable difference in the flavor.
Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or even pepper jack for added flavor.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the goulash for extra texture and flavor.
Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. You can also freeze it for future meals!
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Goulash is the perfect comfort food – rich, hearty, and full of flavor. With its juicy ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the biggest appetites. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s simple to make and will leave everyone asking for seconds.Groceries
Give this Old Fashioned Goulash recipe a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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