Quick & Hearty American Goulash Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Hearty comfort arrives with this classic American goulash that promises to warm your soul on chilly evenings.

Memories of grandma’s kitchen float through every savory bite of this nostalgic dish.

Tender beef mingles with soft macaroni in a rich, tomato-infused sauce that speaks of home-cooked traditions.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, creating a meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Robust flavors and minimal prep make this recipe a weeknight champion for busy cooks.

Spices dance across each forkful, promising a satisfying meal that connects you to rustic, homestyle cooking.

Let’s uncover the magic behind this timeless one-pot wonder that will become your new dinnertime favorite.

Why American Goulash Is a Family Favorite

• Craft Quick Comfort: One-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal kitchen effort and maximum flavor.
• Customize Your Feast: Flexible recipe allowing easy swaps with different sausage types, vegetables, or spice preferences to match your taste and pantry availability.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kid-approved dish that delivers rich, robust flavors everyone loves, making mealtime a stress-free and enjoyable experience for all ages.
• Simple Weeknight Champion: Requires just one skillet, minimal prep work, and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy home cooks seeking delicious meals without complicated techniques.

Ingredients Needed for American Goulash

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides richness and substance to the goulash.

• Onion, Garlic: These aromatics add depth and a savory foundation to the dish.

• Tomato Sauce, Diced Tomatoes: Provide a tangy and slightly sweet tomato base that creates the classic goulash sauce.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and helps create a rich, smooth consistency.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a complex, umami depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Paprika: A traditional Hungarian spice that gives goulash its signature warm, slightly sweet taste.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of herbal notes to complement the other ingredients.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the dish's flavors.

• Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that absorbs the sauce and provides a comforting texture.

• Shredded Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty finish to the goulash for extra richness.

How to Prepare American Goulash

Step 1: Brown The Beef

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Crumble ground beef into the pot, breaking it into small pieces while cooking.

Once the meat is fully cooked, drain away any excess fat from the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot.

Cook and stir until the vegetables become soft and fragrant, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Sauce

• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to blend together.

Step 4: Cook The Pasta

Stir elbow macaroni into the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes.

Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should become tender and absorb most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Finish

Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and stir until it melts completely, creating a creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Ladle the hot goulash into bowls and serve immediately.

This hearty meal is perfect for a comforting dinner.

Pro Tips for American Goulash

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Choose high-quality tomato sauce and diced tomatoes for a richer, more robust taste that elevates the entire dish.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or monterey jack for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Control the consistency by adjusting liquid amounts – add more beef broth if you prefer a saucier goulash or reduce for a thicker texture.
• For gluten-free options, swap regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice to accommodate dietary needs.

Flavor Variations for American Goulash

• Spicy Southwest Goulash: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, add diced green chilies, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Goulash: Swap ground beef for ground lamb, use oregano and mint, add kalamata olives, and finish with crumbled feta cheese.
• Veggie Power Goulash: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles, incorporate diced bell peppers and zucchini, and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Creamy Mushroom Goulash: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, replace some beef broth with heavy cream, and sprinkle with parmesan for an earthy, rich flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for American Goulash

• Serve this hearty goulash in deep bowls with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread. The bread will help soak up the rich, savory sauce, making every bite even more delicious.
• Pair the goulash with a crisp green salad topped with cucumber and cherry tomatoes. The fresh, light salad provides a perfect contrast to the warm, meaty main dish.
• Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese on top just before serving. Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh herb flavor that elevates the entire meal.

How to Store American Goulash Safely

• Transfer leftover goulash to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Cool the goulash completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months. The dish will maintain its flavor and texture when properly stored.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw refrigerated goulash in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture if the pasta seems dry. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

• Is American Goulash the same as Hungarian Goulash?

No, American Goulash is a simplified, one-pot pasta dish with ground beef, while Hungarian Goulash is a traditional stew with chunks of beef and more complex seasonings.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Elbow macaroni works best, but you can substitute with similar short pasta like shells or rotini to maintain the right texture and cooking time.

• How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?

Add extra cheese or reduce spices if children are sensitive to strong flavors. Some kids love mixing in additional shredded cheese on top.

• What protein alternatives work in this recipe?

Ground turkey or plant-based meat crumbles can replace ground beef for a different protein option while maintaining similar flavor and texture.

American Goulash Recipe

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4.9 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Rich and hearty American goulash delivers comfort on a plate with ground beef, pasta, and tomato-based sauce. Midwestern home cooks appreciate this classic one-pot meal you can savor with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
• 1 (15 oz/425 g) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz/425 g) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sear ground beef in a large pot over medium heat (375°F), crumbling meat while cooking. Eliminate accumulated grease thoroughly.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and spice blend into the pot. Gently raise temperature until mixture reaches a gentle bubbling state.
4. Introduce uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the liquid, stirring to distribute evenly. Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and allow contents to simmer for 12-15 minutes.
5. Periodically check pasta’s tenderness, ensuring liquid is gradually absorbing. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
6. Once pasta reaches al dente consistency and liquid has mostly disappeared, remove from heat. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese across surface, allowing residual warmth to melt dairy topping.
7. Let dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a cleaner, more robust flavor profile.
• Try lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier protein alternative that still delivers rich taste.
• Consider using gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top for a bright, fresh finish that enhances visual appeal and adds a subtle herb note.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 421 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 740 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg