If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in comfort and warms you from the inside out, this American Goulash Recipe is your new best friend. With its rich tomato sauce, hearty ground beef, and tender elbow macaroni all simmered together, it’s a cozy, one-pot wonder that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a classic American comfort food that pleases a crowd, this recipe brings together familiar flavors in a way that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the key to making this American Goulash Recipe truly shine. Each component not only builds layers of flavor but also adds distinct texture and vibrant color to the dish, making every bite a celebration.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base to sauté the onions and garlic, bringing out their sweetness.
- Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened and cooked down.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with a fragrant sharpness that lifts the entire meal.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and satisfying.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and earthy warmth.
- Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness that deepens the flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend that adds complexity and a hint of freshness.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and enriches the sauce’s texture.
- Tomato sauce: The saucy foundation that hugs every other ingredient.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Offer bursts of acidity and texture throughout the dish.
- Beef broth: Adds savory richness and helps cook the pasta perfectly in the sauce.
- Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into gooey, cheesy comfort that makes every bite extra indulgent.
- Chopped parsley: A fresh, bright garnish that lifts the dish with color and flavor.
How to Make American Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and let it soften gently for about 3 to 4 minutes—this step releases those sweet aromas that form the backbone of the goulash. Then, add the minced garlic, letting it cook just about 30 seconds to avoid burning while ensuring its fragrance permeates the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef along with salt and pepper. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and let it brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the savory depth really starts to build. If you notice excess fat, drain it to keep the dish from becoming greasy while retaining all those meaty flavors.
Step 3: Layer in Spices and Tomato Paste
Once your beef is beautifully browned, stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Allow this to cook together for about a minute to toast the spices and meld the flavors—it’s these little details that turn good into unforgettable.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer—this is where everything starts to come together into a rich, comforting sauce that smells incredible.
Step 5: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, then reduce your heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly tender and has soaked up the flavors around it.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Rest
Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. The cheese melts silky smooth, giving the goulash an extra layer of richness. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving—this resting time allows flavors to meld even further.
How to Serve American Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a beautiful pop of color and a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little extra shredded cheese on the side never hurts to keep things indulgent.
Side Dishes
This dish shines all on its own, but if you want to add a little something on the side, a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement it well by adding crunch and freshness. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser too, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the American Goulash Recipe in individual oven-safe bowls topped with extra cheese and broiled just a minute to create a golden crust—like a rustic, saucy mac and cheese. You can also transform it into a stuffing for bell peppers for a fun, hand-held twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover American Goulash before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes brilliantly. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through with all the delicious flavors revived.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner twist without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as leaner meats may cook more quickly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the shredded cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The goulash remains flavorful and satisfying even without the cheese.
What if I don’t have elbow macaroni—can I use other pasta?
Definitely! Small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini will work just as well. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different pastas may cook faster or slower.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it uncovered for the last few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, or stir in a little tomato paste to intensify the consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, this American Goulash Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze, then reheat without losing that homey comfort taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this American Goulash Recipe that makes you feel right at home with every spoonful. It’s easy to make, comforting, and loved by everyone at the table. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or cooking for a gathering, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite classic comfort food.
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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
- Diet: Dairy-Free (if cheese is omitted)
Description
This American Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs. Perfect for an easy family dinner, it’s a satisfying dish that can be prepared on the stovetop in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef along with salt and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Add Cheese and Rest: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using. Let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prepping.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute for ground beef.
- Omit cheese for a dairy-free version.
