American Goulash Recipe

If you’ve ever yearned for a hearty, comforting dinner that wraps you up like a warm hug, then this American Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, this one-pot wonder combines rich flavors and satisfying textures in a way that feels both classic and cozy. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving an easy weeknight meal, this dish offers a delicious blend of savory spices and creamy cheese that always hits the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this American Goulash Recipe unforgettable. Each component plays a starring role, from the aromatic onions and garlic that build your flavor base, to the juicy tomatoes and rich broth that create the perfect sauce.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is your cooking fat to sauté aromatics and keep everything from sticking.
• 1 medium onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant punch that wakes up the entire dish.
• 1 pound ground beef: Provides rich, hearty protein that forms the base of this meal.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the pot.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a gentle smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of dried herbs that brighten the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth: Infuses extra meaty flavor and ensures a deliciously saucy consistency.
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Forms the silky tomato base essential for this goulash.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds texture and fresh bursts of tomato flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers umami richness that gives depth to the sauce.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic pasta shape that pairs perfectly with this saucy beef mixture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into a creamy finish that makes every bite irresistible.

How to Make American Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook it until it’s soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds more—this brief moment helps release its beautiful aroma without burning.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart gently with a wooden spoon as it cooks so it browns evenly and loses its pink color. Once it’s fully browned, drain any excess fat if you want a leaner dish. This step builds the hearty foundation for your American Goulash Recipe.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Now it’s time to bring flavor into the fold! Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, letting the spices bloom for a minute. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes along with their juices, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and raise the heat to bring the mix to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

When the sauce is bubbling, add the dry elbow macaroni straight into the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pasta cook in the simmering sauce for about 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly until tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

If you’re using cheese, stir in the shredded cheddar once the pasta is cooked perfectly. The heat from the dish will melt the cheese into a creamy, dreamy finish, making this American Goulash Recipe truly indulgent and irresistible. Serve it steaming hot straight from the pot for maximum comfort.

How to Serve American Goulash Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a handful of sliced green onions on top of your goulash to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream can also complement the richness and add a delightful creaminess if you want to get a little fancy.

Side Dishes

This American Goulash Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables rounds out the meal nicely. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or over a bed of sautéed greens. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed peppers or use the mixture as a filling for baked pasta shells to surprise your family with a creative dinner idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, let the American Goulash Recipe cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your goulash gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving works too—just cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make this American Goulash Recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Substituting ground turkey or chicken works great if you prefer a lighter version. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since these meats can cook faster and release less fat than beef.

Is it okay to add vegetables to the goulash?

Yes! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach when sautéing the onions is a delicious way to sneak in extra nutrients and flavor without changing the essence of the dish.

Do I have to use elbow macaroni, or can I use other pasta shapes?

Elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce well, but you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I prepare this American Goulash Recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can cook it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your leftovers even tastier.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The classic version uses regular elbow macaroni, which contains gluten. However, substituting with gluten-free pasta will keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing any of the great taste.

Final Thoughts

This American Goulash Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like home with every spoonful. Its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and comforting beef come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Give it a go—you’ll soon discover why it’s a staple in so many kitchens, delivering warmth, flavor, and plenty of smiles.

American Goulash Recipe

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3.8 from 21 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This classic American Goulash recipe is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal combining tender ground beef, savory tomatoes, and tender elbow macaroni. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features a balance of spices and optional melted cheddar cheese for creamy richness. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it makes a family-friendly dish that reheats beautifully and can be customized with vegetables or alternative meats.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Aromatics

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Liquids and Canned Goods

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices

Pasta and Cheese

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
2. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it is browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Season the Mixture: Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the browned beef and onions. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling mixture. Reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
6. Incorporate Cheese: If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture throughout the dish.
7. Serve: Serve the American Goulash hot as a satisfying main course perfect for any dinner occasion.

Notes

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner version of this dish.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions for extra vegetables and texture.
• This dish reheats well and is ideal for meal prepping; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use reduced-fat cheese or omit cheese to reduce fat content if desired.

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