If you are craving a warm embrace in a bowl that feels like a hearty hug from home, this American Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender ground beef, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with a blend of classic spices, this dish is an effortless crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re making a family dinner or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this American Goulash Recipe hits all the right notes with its savory, slightly tangy flavor and gooey melted cheese finishing touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together seamlessly to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and vibrant color. Each component plays a vital role, from the fragrant sautéed onions and garlic to the tender pasta soaking up all those rich tomato juices.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing to add a subtle fruity base and help soften the onions.
- Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth when cooked until tender.
- Garlic cloves: Offers a fragrant punch that enhances all the other flavors.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the backbone of this dish.
- Beef broth: Adds richness and moisture, making the sauce luscious and full-bodied.
- Tomato sauce: The base of the sauce that ties everything together with its smooth texture.
- Diced tomatoes: Brings bursts of acidity and color, giving the sauce delightful texture.
- Worcestershire sauce: Injects a savory, umami dimension that deepens the overall taste.
- Italian seasoning: Offers a fragrant herbal lift with notes of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smoky warmth and beautiful color to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors.
- Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, melty topping that makes each serving extra indulgent.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make American Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. If there is excess grease, drain it to keep the dish from becoming too oily. This step builds the meaty, savory foundation for the sauce.
Step 3: Add the Liquid Ingredients and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors evenly. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the delicious sauce, becoming tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese if you want that luscious, melty layer that American Goulash is famous for. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken up before serving. You can garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve American Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of brightness and makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes. For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream can be stirred in just before serving to give a gentle tang and silkiness that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef and tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve this American Goulash Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce, turning every bite into a comforting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or scooped into individual casserole dishes topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. This elevates the dish and makes it even more family-friendly and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This American Goulash Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers arguably even better than the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover goulash for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative and still work wonderfully in this American Goulash Recipe. The flavor might be a bit lighter, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate.
Is it okay to use other pasta shapes?
While elbow macaroni is traditional and ideal for holding the sauce, you can use other small pasta like shells or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as it may vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
How spicy is this American Goulash Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced with paprika and Italian herbs, making it kid-friendly and suitable for all palates. If you prefer some heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be added during cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, adding uncooked pasta 30 minutes before the end of cooking time so it doesn’t overcook.
Final Thoughts
This American Goulash Recipe is a true classic that delivers comfort, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing flavors all in one pot. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with a few tweaks or garnishes that suit your taste. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. So grab your pot, your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this soul-soothing meal that feels like a warm hug from a dear old friend.
Print
American Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
American Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of seasonings, simmered to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a hearty dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Brown the ground beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary to avoid a greasy final dish.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of tomato sauce, and 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer with pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low to simmer. Stir in 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and let simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Add cheese and thicken: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese if using, allowing it to melt into the mixture. Let the goulash sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty American Goulash.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter option.
- For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream at the end of cooking.
- This dish reheats very well, making it ideal for leftovers.
