A Taste of Tradition: Classic Old School Goulash Recipe, New York Style

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Old School Goulash: A New York Comfort Classic

In the bustling kitchens of New York, where flavors blend as fast as the city moves, there’s one dish that stands the test of time: Old School Goulash. This hearty meal has made its way from European roots into the heart of American homes, particularly in the Empire State, where family dinners and Sunday gatherings call for something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. New Yorkers have perfected the art of goulash, taking it from its humble beginnings and adding their own local twist, making it a beloved dish in homes across the state.

The Classic Comfort of Old School Goulash

Imagine tender beef simmered to perfection in a rich tomato-based sauce, filled with the flavors of garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. In New York, where culinary diversity reigns supreme, goulash remains a comforting reminder of tradition, combining simple ingredients into a dish that’s both filling and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it up on a cold winter night or for a casual family get-together, this goulash brings warmth to the table with every bite.

The Recipe: New York Style Old School Goulash

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds sirloin steak (sliced) or lean hamburger meat
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 large white or yellow onion, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 15-ounce cans whole, peeled tomatoes
• 2 15-ounce cans Italian diced tomatoes
• 2 large jalapeño peppers, chopped (optional)
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon lemon pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 lb elbow or cellentani pasta, uncooked
• 1 bag baby spinach
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Begin by heating the canola oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned with no pink remaining.
2. Add the chopped onions, mushrooms, and garlic to the pot, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Pour in the water and beef broth, then add the whole tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir everything together.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes.
5. Make sure there’s enough liquid before adding the pasta. If needed, add hot water to the pot. Stir in the uncooked pasta and baby spinach, then cover the pot again and let everything simmer until the pasta is al dente, around 7 minutes.
6. Remove the pot from heat and allow the goulash to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving.
7. Serve the goulash warm, and if desired, top it with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of comfort.

A New York Tradition on Your Table

What makes this Old School Goulash a New York favorite isn’t just its rich taste but the way it brings people together. Whether you’re from the heart of Manhattan or a small town upstate, this dish connects the tradition of home-cooked meals with the vibrant flavors of the city. The tender beef, the punch of garlic and spices, and the soft pasta all come together to create a dish that’s more than just filling—it’s a piece of history, shared over the dinner table. Pair it with a crusty slice of bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that’ll satisfy even the hungriest of New Yorkers.

Old School Goulash recipe is a nostalgic classic that combines tender beef, tomatoes, pasta, and a delicious mix of spices into a hearty, flavorful dish. This variation takes inspiration from classic American Goulash recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

The American Goulash is a crowd-pleaser, similar to traditional versions that have been shared for generations. Recipes like this typically involve browning beef with onions and garlic before adding tomatoes, broth, and seasonings like paprika and Worcestershire sauce. After simmering to enhance the flavors, elbow macaroni (or other pasta) is added until perfectly al dente​(Momsdish)​(Don't Sweat The Recipe)​(My Incredible Recipes).

Some sources also suggest variations, such as using ground turkey for a lighter version or adding veggies like green peppers and peas for extra nutrition​(Don't Sweat The Recipe)​(I Heart Recipes).

If you want to explore more about this dish, check out this helpful breakdown (Don't Sweat The Recipe)tps://www.dontsweattherecipe.com/old-fashioned-goulash-american-goulash/).

For your New York inspired version, adding spinach and topping the dish with cheddar cheese elevates the goulash into a satisfying, modern family favorite, balancing traditional flavors with a fresh twist.