🍲 Old-Fashioned Goulash 🍲

For the Goulash:

• 1 pound ground beef (or stew meat, if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
• 1 large onion , diced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 carrots , peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks , diced
• 1 green bell pepper , diced (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes , undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (traditional but optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 8 ounces small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni, rotini, or egg noodles)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or stew meat) and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper (if using) and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Build the Sauce

• Return the beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, paprika, caraway seeds, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add the Pasta

• While the goulash simmers, prepare the small pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and stir the cooked pasta into the pot. If using frozen peas or corn, add them at this stage as well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat everything through.

5. Serve Hot

• Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Paprika : Smoked paprika adds depth and richness to the dish, while sweet paprika keeps things milder. Choose based on your preference.
2. Adjust Spice Levels : For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
3. Make It Ahead : This goulash tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
4. Experiment with Proteins : Swap out the ground beef for diced chicken, turkey, or sausage for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Goulash is a true comfort food classic that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, its hearty ingredients and rich seasoning make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor this timeless treasure! 🍲✨