Newfie Goulash – recipesshubb

Newfie Goulash: A Hearty Newfoundland Comfort Dish

Few dishes embody the warmth and simplicity of Newfoundland home cooking like Newfie Goulash. This rustic one-pot meal is a staple in kitchens across the province, celebrated for its rich, savory sauce, tender beef, and comforting pasta. Often served during family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, Newfie Goulash is not only delicious but also easy to make with basic ingredients.

Whether you’re new to Newfoundland cuisine or simply looking for a cozy, satisfying meal, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to the perfect goulash.

What is Newfie Goulash?

Unlike the Hungarian goulash it shares a name with, Newfie Goulash is more like a hearty beef and tomato pasta casserole. It’s made with ground beef, onions, green peppers, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, often seasoned with paprika and other spices. Some variations include garlic, mushrooms, or Worcestershire sauce, but the classic version stays simple, relying on a balance of savory beef and tender noodles.

This dish is known for being:

Affordable and family-friendly – Uses pantry staples and stretches to feed many people.
Comforting and filling – Perfect for cold evenings or busy weeknights.
Versatile – Easy to customize with vegetables, cheese, or different types of pasta.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6–8 people.

For the Goulash:

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 cup beef broth or water
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Pasta:

12 ounces (340 g) elbow macaroni or other small pasta
Salt for boiling water

Optional Garnishes:

Grated cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. A little undercooked is okay, as it will cook further when mixed with the sauce.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove any excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth (or water). Add paprika, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Tip: For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce longer—up to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, gently folding it in until all the noodles are coated with the rich tomato-beef mixture. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.

6. Serve

Transfer the Newfie Goulash to a serving dish. Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting, hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Newfie Goulash

Use quality ground beef – Lean beef works best to reduce excess fat while keeping the dish hearty.
Customize vegetables – Add mushrooms, carrots, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Adjust the sauce – If you like a thicker goulash, simmer longer without the lid. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more broth.
Make ahead – Newfie Goulash tastes even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option.
Freeze for later – Portion into freezer-safe containers for easy, future meals.

Variations

While the classic Newfie Goulash is simple, you can adapt it to your taste:

Cheesy Goulash – Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving.
Spicy Goulash – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Vegetable-Loaded Goulash – Toss in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.

Serving Suggestions

Newfie Goulash is satisfying on its own, but you can also serve it with:

Garlic bread or fresh buns
A crisp green salad
Steamed vegetables for added nutrition

It’s a versatile dish that fits both casual and family-style meals.

Why This Dish is a Newfoundland Favorite

Newfie Goulash has remained a staple for generations because it’s:

Simple to prepare – Minimal ingredients, minimal fuss.
Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and inexpensive protein.
Comforting and hearty – Perfect for cold weather or family gatherings.

It embodies the spirit of Newfoundland cooking: practical, flavorful, and heartwarming.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re introducing your family to Newfoundland cuisine or just looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal, Newfie Goulash delivers every time. With tender beef, a rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.