How Do You Make Goulash with Hamburger?
This hearty and satisfying dish is made by browning ground beef, combining it with pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings, then simmering until the flavors meld into a delicious, comforting meal. The key is to slowly simmer the ingredients, allowing them to create a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta and beef.
A Culinary Classic: Goulash, Reinvented
Goulash, traditionally a Hungarian stew, boasts a rich history and countless variations. While classic versions often feature chunks of beef, paprika, and vegetables, this recipe utilizes readily available ground beef, making it a simple and affordable family favorite. This Americanized adaptation delivers the same comforting warmth and satisfying flavors in a fraction of the time and with minimal effort. It’s a testament to how culinary traditions can evolve and adapt to suit modern tastes and lifestyles.
The Benefits of Hamburger Goulash
Beyond its delicious taste, hamburger goulash offers several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Ground beef is typically more affordable than other cuts of meat.
- Quick and easy: Requires minimal prep time and simmers quickly compared to traditional stews.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with various vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings.
- Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.
- One-pot meal: Minimizes cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
The Hamburger Goulash Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simple method for creating a delicious hamburger goulash:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (optional).
- Incorporate Pasta: Add uncooked elbow macaroni (or other small pasta shape) to the pot.
- Simmer and Stir: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cheese (Optional): Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or other desired cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Key Ingredients and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider these variations and additions:
- Meat: Ground turkey or ground sausage can be substituted for ground beef.
- Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the sautéed aromatics.
- Spices: Experiment with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but penne, rotini, or shells work well too.
- Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans for added protein and fiber.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can also be used.
Avoiding Common Goulash Mistakes
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making hamburger goulash:
- Not Draining the Grease: Excess grease can make the goulash greasy and unappetizing.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and detracts from the overall texture.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Burning the Bottom: Stir regularly to prevent the goulash from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Add the correct amount of liquid to ensure the goulash has a thick, saucy consistency.
Ingredient Quality: Making the Most of Your Goulash
| Ingredient | Quality Matters? | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Yes | Higher-quality ground beef often has a better flavor and less fat. |
| Canned Tomatoes | Yes | Higher-quality canned tomatoes tend to be richer in flavor and have a smoother texture. San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the gold standard. |
| Beef Broth | Yes | A good quality beef broth provides a richer, more savory base for the sauce. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought options vary in quality. |
| Cheese (Optional) | Yes | Using a good quality cheese will result in a better flavor and melt more smoothly. Pre-shredded cheese may contain cellulose, which can affect melting. |
| Pasta | No | While different brands offer varying textures, the quality of basic elbow macaroni is generally consistent. Focus on cooking it properly to avoid mushiness. |
Frequently Asked Questions: Mastering Hamburger Goulash
What is the origin of goulash, and how is this hamburger version different?
Goulash originated in Hungary as a hearty stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and other vegetables. This hamburger version is a simplified and Americanized adaptation, using ground beef for convenience and affordability. While it shares the same comforting flavors and base ingredients, it’s a faster and easier rendition of the classic dish.
Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the uncooked pasta during the last hour of cooking. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together while cooking?
Stir the goulash frequently during the simmering process to prevent the pasta from clumping together. Also, ensure there’s enough liquid to fully cover the pasta. Adding a tablespoon of oil can also help.
Can I freeze hamburger goulash for later?
Absolutely! Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a little extra broth when reheating, as the pasta may absorb some of the liquid.
What are some good side dishes to serve with hamburger goulash?
A simple side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments to hamburger goulash. Garlic bread is another popular choice.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey. Add more vegetables and reduce the amount of pasta. Use whole-wheat pasta for added fiber. Reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option.
What if I don’t have beef broth? Can I substitute something else?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes for beef broth. You can also use water with a beef bouillon cube or base. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work.
Can I add cream cheese to make it creamier?
Yes, stirring in a couple of ounces of cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking will add a rich and creamy texture to the goulash.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to the goulash for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
My goulash is too thick. How do I thin it out?
Gradually add beef broth or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well after each addition.
What kind of cheese works best in hamburger goulash?
Cheddar cheese is the most popular choice, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses also work well. Choose a cheese that melts easily and has a flavor you enjoy.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of hamburger goulash?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a combination of vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.