Skillet Goulash
I still remember the first time I made Skillet Goulash for my family. It was a chilly winter evening, and we were all craving something warm and comforting. I had all the ingredients on hand, so I decided to give it a try. The result was a delicious, hearty dish that quickly became a staple in our household.
Skillet Goulash is one of those recipes that's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It's easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be ready in under an hour. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ground beef or vegetables you have on hand.
One of the things I love about Skillet Goulash is its versatility. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or even with some steamed vegetables. It's also a great dish to make ahead of time and reheat when you're ready for dinner.
In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a classic Skillet Goulash that's sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender ground beef, it's a dish that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe, look no further than Skillet Goulash. It's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your household, and one that you'll return to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Skillet Goulash is an easy and fast dinner recipe that can be ready in under an hour.
- It's a budget-friendly recipe that uses common ingredients.
- It's a great way to use up any leftover ground beef or vegetables you have on hand.
- It's a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides.
- It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening.
- It's a great recipe for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to a great Skillet Goulash is in the cooking technique. By browning the ground beef thoroughly, you create a rich, flavorful base for the dish. Then, by adding in the onions, garlic, and tomatoes, you add depth and complexity to the sauce.
Another important aspect of Skillet Goulash is the use of layering flavors. By adding in the spices and seasonings in stages, you create a dish that's full of flavor and interest. And, by using a combination of beef broth and tomato paste, you create a sauce that's both rich and tangy.
Finally, the resting time is crucial in Skillet Goulash. By letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, you allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. This results in a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Skillet Goulash, you'll need a few common ingredients, including ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. You'll also need some spices and seasonings, such as paprika, salt, and pepper. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and lean ground beef, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
When shopping for ingredients, look for sales on ground beef and canned tomatoes. You can also use leftover vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beefChoose lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture. You can also use ground turkey or ground pork as a substitute.
- 1 large onion, choppedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use shallots or scallions as a substitute.
- 3 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt as a substitute.
- 2 cups (475ml) beef brothUse low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content of the dish. You can also use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute.
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoesUse canned diced tomatoes for convenience and flavor. You can also use fresh tomatoes, such as Roma or cherry tomatoes, as a substitute.
- 1 tsp (5g) paprikaUse sweet paprika for the best flavor. You can also use smoked paprika or hot paprika as a substitute.
- 1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoUse fresh oregano for the best flavor. You can also use dried thyme or dried basil as a substitute.
- 1/2 tsp (2g) saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt as a substitute.
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use white pepper or green pepper as a substitute.
- 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flourUse all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce. You can also use cornstarch or tapioca flour as a substitute.
- 2 tbsp (30g) butterUse unsalted butter for the best flavor. You can also use margarine or oil as a substitute.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Skillet Goulash
- 1Heat the butter in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until melted.
- 2Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 4Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- 5Add the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 6Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and flour to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- 7Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
- 8Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the dish, which should be at least 165 F.
- 9Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, which allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- 10Serve the Skillet Goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Expert Tips
- Use a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven to cook the Skillet Goulash, as it will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the dish from burning.
- Don't overcook the ground beef, as it can become tough and dry.
- Use a variety of spices and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the dish.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, as it will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve the Skillet Goulash with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- Experiment with different ingredients, such as ground turkey or ground pork, to add variety to the dish.
- Make the Skillet Goulash ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve, which can be a convenient option for a busy weeknight dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the ground beef thoroughly, which can result in a dull and flavorless dish.
- Not using enough spices and seasonings, which can result in a bland and uninteresting dish.
- Overcooking the dish, which can result in a tough and dry texture.
- Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can result in a sauce that's too thin and a flavor that's not fully developed.
- Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a dish that's lacking in flavor and texture.
- Not stirring the dish regularly, which can result in a sauce that's too thick and a flavor that's not evenly distributed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add some diced bell peppers or carrots to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use ground turkey or ground pork instead of ground beef for a different flavor and texture.
- Add some diced tomatoes or tomato paste to the skillet for added flavor and moisture.
- Use different spices and seasonings, such as cumin or chili powder, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
- Serve the Skillet Goulash with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- Make the Skillet Goulash ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve, which can be a convenient option for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the skillet for added flavor and creaminess.
What to Serve With Skillet Goulash
Serve the Skillet Goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. You can also serve it with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Some other options for serving the Skillet Goulash include serving it over egg noodles or rice, or using it as a filling for tacos or stuffed peppers.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
The Skillet Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat the Skillet Goulash, simply heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until warmed through.
When storing the Skillet Goulash, be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the dish fresh.
When reheating the Skillet Goulash, be sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165 F to ensure food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of ground beef to use for Skillet Goulash?
The best type of ground beef to use for Skillet Goulash is lean ground beef, such as 80/20 or 85/15. This will help to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy and will result in a more flavorful and tender texture.
Can I use ground turkey or ground pork instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground pork instead of ground beef. Simply substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of ground turkey or ground pork and proceed with the recipe as instructed.
How do I prevent the Skillet Goulash from becoming too thick?
To prevent the Skillet Goulash from becoming too thick, be sure to stir it regularly and add a little more beef broth or water if necessary. You can also add a little more tomato paste or diced tomatoes to help thin out the sauce.
Can I make the Skillet Goulash ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can make the Skillet Goulash ahead of time and reheat it. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it until you're ready to serve. Reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
What are some good sides to serve with Skillet Goulash?
Some good sides to serve with Skillet Goulash include crusty bread, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and egg noodles. You can also serve it with a salad or a side of fruit for a lighter option.
Can I freeze the Skillet Goulash?
Yes, you can freeze the Skillet Goulash. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze until solid. Reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
How long does the Skillet Goulash last in the refrigerator?
The Skillet Goulash will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40 F or below.
Can I make the Skillet Goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the Skillet Goulash in a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp (5g) paprika
- 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp (30g) butter
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until melted.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and flour to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the dish, which should be at least 165 F.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, which allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve the Skillet Goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.