American Goulash Recipe

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

American Goulash Recipe is a classic, comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With simple pantry staples and minimal cleanup, this hearty meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet flavorful this dish is. Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta creates a deliciously savory meal that’s both filling and nostalgic. The addition of cheddar cheese makes it even more comforting, while the seasonings bring out a rich depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) ground beef

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned, ensuring to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.

Create the Flavor Base: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Add the Pasta: Incorporate the elbow macaroni into the skillet, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the macaroni reaches al dente perfection and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Cheesy Finale (Optional): If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the goulash during the last few minutes of cooking. Let it melt and meld with the flavors for an extra indulgent touch.

Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the goulash to sit for a few minutes to further thicken. Then, serve it hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and watch as your family and friends delight in this comforting meal.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick – I like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

Protein Swap – Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.

Veggie Boost – Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.

Cheesy Upgrade – A mix of mozzarella and cheddar creates a creamier texture.

Low-Carb Alternative – Swap pasta for cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the goulash just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

Pair with Bread or Salad: Serve your American Goulash with crusty bread or a crisp green salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.

Customize with Toppings: Set out bowls of additional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or grated Parmesan cheese to let everyone customize their goulash according to their taste preferences.

Family Style: Place the skillet of goulash directly on the table and let everyone help themselves for a cozy and communal dining experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Allow any leftover goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: American Goulash freezes well. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating: To enjoy your frozen goulash, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through.

Quality Check: Before consuming leftover or frozen goulash, ensure it smells and looks fresh. Discard any leftovers that show signs of spoilage.

Related recipes:

FAQs:

Can I Make American Goulash Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! American Goulash is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Simply follow the recipe instructions, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be a healthier alternative if you’re watching your fat intake. Simply follow the recipe as directed, but use ground turkey instead of ground beef. The end result will still be delicious and satisfying.

What Can I Serve with American Goulash?

American Goulash is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include crusty bread, dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a side of creamy coleslaw for a complete and balanced meal.

How Do I Adjust the Spiciness Level of the Goulash?

If you prefer a spicier goulash, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste. Simply add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet along with the other seasonings. You can also increase the amount of paprika for a richer, spicier flavor. Conversely, if you prefer a milder goulash, you can reduce or omit the paprika altogether. Adjust the seasonings according to your personal preference until you achieve the desired level of spiciness.

Conclusion:

With its savory flavors and hearty ingredients, American Goulash is a timeless dish that never fails to please. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving some cozy comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. So, grab your skillet and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade goulash!


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American Goulash Recipe


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: serves 6

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of American Goulash with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.


Ingredients

1 pound (450g) ground beef

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add onion and garlic.
  2. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
  3. Add elbow macaroni and simmer until cooked.
  4. Optionally, top with shredded cheddar cheese and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using ground turkey instead of beef.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for easy reheating.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: serves 6

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