Beef Goulash

Beef goulash is more than just a dish; it’s a hearty embrace on a plate. As you gather around the table with family and friends, this classic recipe nourishes not just your stomach, but also your soul. Imagine the savory aroma filling your kitchen, the sort that instantly transports you back to childhood memories or family gatherings. Today, we’re diving into the world of Beef Goulash Recipe, where tender meat mingles with rich tomato sauce and cheesy goodness for a meal that delights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe caters to all skill levels, ensuring you can whip up something delicious without too much fuss. Let’s pull up our sleeves, grab our ingredients, and create a delightful bowl of goulash that everyone will love!

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Why This Recipe Works

Beef goulash is a timeless dish that offers a comforting blend of flavors, perfectly balancing savory beef and tangy tomatoes. This recipe is designed for simplicity, allowing for a delicious meal in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The mix of ingredients creates a robust flavor profile that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Goulash Recipe

This Beef Goulash recipe is ideal for busy nights or when you crave a hearty meal without the hassle. With its cheesy goodness and tender noodles enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, it caters to both comfort food cravings and family-friendly meals. Plus, this recipe is versatile and forgiving, allowing you to make substitutions or add ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth (or half water and half broth)
• 16 oz large elbow noodles (can use up to 24 oz pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Thoroughly Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it before moving on to the next steps.

Add Onions and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. As they soften and release their fragrant aroma, stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onion turns tender.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings

Now, it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. If you’ve chosen to add red kidney beans, this is the moment. Follow up by adding Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything combines nicely to build flavor.

Pour in the Broth

Continuing on, add the beef broth to the mix, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Cook the Noodles

Once it’s simmered nicely, toss in the elbow noodles. Let it simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir often to ensure even cooking and avoid any mushy noodles.

Stir in Cheddar Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, watching it melt and blend into the dish beautifully.

Garnish and Serve

To finish, serve the Beef Goulash immediately. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Make your meal even cozier by serving this Beef Goulash with a piece of crusty bread or a vibrant fresh green salad. It pairs particularly well with a side of garlic bread or a light coleslaw, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• To deepen the flavor, consider browning the beef with some paprika or adding a splash of red wine while it simmers.
• Keep an eye on the noodles to prevent overcooking, as they will continue to absorb some broth post-cooking.
• If you like a thicker goulash, adjust the amount of broth according to your preference.

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey for a lighter take, and feel free to mix in different beans like black beans or chickpeas.
• Switch it up with different pasta shapes like rotini or penne for a fun twist.
• For added nutrition and color, throw in vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for this Beef Goulash?
Yes, start by browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can absolutely make it gluten-free by using gluten-free elbow noodles.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! Just store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before enjoying again.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or a mix of vinegar and a bit of sugar work well as substitutes for a similar flavor.

How can I make this a vegetarian dish?
Simply omit the meat and replace it with vegetable broth, adding beans and more veggies for a wholesome vegetarian goulash.

This Beef Goulash recipe is a celebration of warm, comforting flavors that bring people together. It’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, ensuring that every bowl is filled with love and care. Whether enjoyed freshly made or as a tasty leftover, Beef Goulash is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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