American Goulash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A true one-pot dinner with easy cleanup.
• Classic, nostalgic flavor that appeals to all ages.
• Affordable ingredients you likely already have.
• Ready in under an hour, ideal for weeknights.
• Versatile enough to adapt with your favorite seasonings or add-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Elbow macaroni
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth or water
• Worcestershire sauce
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add the elbow macaroni and stir to ensure it doesn’t stick.
5. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the flavors have melded.
6. Remove the bay leaf if used. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top if desired and let it melt before serving.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 6 servings
• Prep time: Approximately 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30–35 minutes
• Total time: Around 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Goulash: Stir in cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a creamier texture.
• Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, celery, or mushrooms when cooking the onions.
• Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or use hot paprika.
• Turkey Goulash: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Smoky Twist: Add a bit of smoked paprika or diced smoked sausage.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Why is my goulash too thick?

Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency until it reaches your preference.

Can I cook the pasta separately?

Yes, but traditional American goulash cooks the pasta in the sauce for better flavor and fewer dishes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight. Add a bit of liquid when reheating if it thickens.

Why did my pasta get mushy?

Overcooking can cause mushiness. Stir and check the pasta frequently, removing from heat when just tender.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, but choose small shapes like shells, rotini, or mini penne for best results.

Is American Goulash the same as Hungarian Goulash?

No. Hungarian goulash is a stew with chunks of beef, paprika, and vegetables. American goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

Water works fine, though the flavor will be slightly milder. You can add a bouillon cube if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a large pot. Increase seasonings and liquids proportionally.

Why does my goulash lack flavor?

Adjust salt, add more paprika or Italian seasoning, or incorporate Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a classic, cozy, and easy one-pot meal that brings simple ingredients together into something delicious and hearty. Whether you keep it traditional or customize it with your favorite flavors, this dish is perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl any night of the week.

American Goulash

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American Goulash is a hearty one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni simmered together for a cozy, budget-friendly family meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add elbow macaroni and stir to prevent sticking.
5. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
6. Remove bay leaf if used and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt, if desired.
8. Serve hot with fresh parsley garnish.

Notes

• Add extra paprika or chili flakes for a spicier version.
• Stir in vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of broth when reheating if mixture thickens.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg