Cook the Macaroni:
Prepare the macaroni al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta maintains a bit of firmness, preventing it from becoming too soft when baked with the sauce.
Brown the Beef:
While the macaroni is cooking, place an extra-large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking them together until the beef is thoroughly browned.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then season the beef and onion mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large bowl, use a potato masher to crush the whole stewed tomatoes, ensuring to keep the juices for added flavor.
Add the mashed tomatoes and ketchup to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
Combine and Bake:
Once the macaroni is cooked and drained, add it to the beef and tomato mixture, stirring well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you find the goulash too thick, you can add tomato juice to achieve your desired consistency.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until it becomes bubbly and hot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Old Fashioned Goulash hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Consider adding grated cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips:
Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. If the goulash thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a little tomato juice when reheating to bring back its juicy consistency.
Customization: Feel free to customize the spices according to your preferences. Adding paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can provide additional depth of flavor.
Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it's a comforting reminder of family gatherings and simpler times. Whether you're introducing it to your family for the first time or continuing a long-standing tradition, this dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites
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