Are you craving a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this hearty Pioneer Woman Goulash recipe! This isn't your grandma's goulash (though she might love it too!), it's a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. This easy recipe is packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce – it's a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmering to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. This is a great example of how slow cooking creates the best recipes.
Step 5: Adding Pasta
Stir in the pasta during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time, or according to package directions. Ensure the pasta is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips for the Best Goulash:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in beef stew meat.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with firm tofu or mushrooms.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Variations:
- Hungarian Goulash: Add caraway seeds and a tablespoon of sweet paprika for a more authentic Hungarian twist.
- Spicy Goulash: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or some chili flakes for a fiery kick.
- Creamy Goulash: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Pioneer Woman Goulash recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a truly delicious and satisfying dish. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!