American Goulash

American Goulash is a comfort food classic that brings families together around the dinner table. This one-pot dish is bursting with flavors, offering a delightful mix of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender macaroni. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Make This American Goulash

American Goulash is a quintessential comfort food that is both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. It’s an all-in-one meal that combines protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, making it a balanced option for family dinners. The combination of spices, savory beef, and tangy tomato sauce creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for meal prepping, as it freezes well for those busy days when cooking isn’t an option.

How to Make American Goulash

Making American Goulash is easy and straightforward. You’ll begin by sautéing the onion and garlic, followed by browning the ground beef. As you layer in the spices and sauces, the aroma that fills your kitchen will be mouthwatering! Then, just let everything simmer together to blend those flavors beautifully. The best part? Most of the cooking takes place in one pot, minimizing cleanup.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
30 ounces tomato sauce
14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
2 bay leaves
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the pot, cooking until browned, and breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Season the mixture with salt, ground black pepper, paprika, oregano, and basil. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, mixing well.

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined. Add bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook for another 12–15 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove bay leaves from the pot. If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese, if using.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 1 heaping cup):

Calories: 440
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 28g

How to Serve American Goulash

Serve American Goulash hot, right from the pot! It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a family-style meal, serve it in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves. It’s also a great dish for potlucks and gatherings where hearty comfort food is appreciated.

How to Store American Goulash

To store leftover American Goulash, let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect American Goulash

For extra flavor, consider using beef stock instead of broth.
You can customize the spices according to your preference; add cayenne for a kick or some dried thyme for a different herbaceous note.
If you’re looking for a simpler cooking method, you can make it in a slow cooker by browning the meat and then adding all ingredients to the slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low.

Don’t have elbow macaroni? Penne or any favorite pasta will work beautifully as a substitute.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Goulash: Substitute the beef with lentils or ground meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in additional shredded cheese on top before serving for that extra cheesy goodness.

Spicy Goulash: Add in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can work as lighter alternatives, maintaining similar cooking times.

What if I don’t have bay leaves?
You can omit them, but if available, consider a splash of Italian seasoning to add depth.
Can I prepare American Goulash in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead; the flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a supremely comforting meal that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. This dish brings together the hearty goodness of beef and pasta in a rich tomato sauce, making it a timeless family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen. You might just find yourself making it a regular part of your dinner rotation! Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with your loved ones!