American Goulash

If you’re searching for a warm, comforting dish that you can throw together in no time, this American Goulash recipe is your new best friend. It’s packed with simple ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss. Dive into the rich flavors and cozy textures of this classic dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Ready in about 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into any busy weeknight schedule.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you likely already have, so no last-minute grocery runs.
• Comfort Food Classic: Delivers the rich, meaty, and saucy goodness everyone loves in a comforting bowl.
• Family Friendly: Kid-approved flavors that everyone at the table will enjoy.
• One-Pot Wonder: Clean up is a breeze, since everything cooks together in a single pot or skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Goulash recipe is charmingly simple yet delivers layers of flavor through each component. Each ingredient plays its role, whether adding depth, texture, or vibrant color to the dish.

• Ground Beef: The hearty base that adds rich and savory flavor.
• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds onto the sauce perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provide tangy brightness and moisture.
• Tomato Sauce: Builds up the thick, luscious sauce your taste buds crave.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that add warmth and depth.
• Bell Peppers: Add a crunchy sweetness and a pop of color.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami for a more robust profile.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts in beautifully for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Basic Spices: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to round out the flavor perfectly.

Variations for American Goulash

Feel free to customize this American Goulash recipe to fit your tastes or dietary needs — it’s as flexible as your pantry allows!

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef with mushrooms or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat to the dish.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a melty twist.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for a healthier pasta alternative for added fiber and nutrients.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini, carrots, or spinach for a veggie boost without changing the flavor profile drastically.

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon, cooking until it’s no longer pink and begins to brown. Then, toss in diced onions and minced garlic to sauté until fragrant and softened. This step builds the flavor foundation for your American Goulash.

Step 2: Add the Bell Peppers and Seasonings

Next, stir in the chopped bell peppers along with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them cook for a few minutes to soften while allowing the spices to release their aroma.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Sauce

Pour in both the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring everything together. Add Worcestershire sauce now to deepen the umami. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so the flavors meld beautifully while thickening the sauce slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni directly into the sauce. Pour in enough water or broth to just cover the pasta. Simmer with the pot partially covered, stirring often to prevent pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Finally, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and decadent finish. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then turn off the heat and get ready to serve.

Pro Tips for Making American Goulash

• Use Ground Beef with Some Fat: A 80/20 ratio adds extra flavor and richness to the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on pasta texture to avoid mushiness.
• Simmer Gently: Low and slow locking in deeper flavor than a rapid boil.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: Add broth or water progressively for a perfect sauce consistency.
• Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh parsley or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve American Goulash

Garnishes

Top your American Goulash with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess and a fresh finish that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to complete your cozy meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving American Goulash in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil briefly for a golden crusty topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover American Goulash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It reheats well, keeping its comforting flavors intact.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave leftovers, covering loosely to keep moisture locked in.

FAQs

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a simple, hearty comfort food combining ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings to create a homestyle, stew-like dish popular in many U.S. households.

Can I use different pasta shapes for American Goulash?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, shell pasta, rotini, or small penne all work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Is American Goulash gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses regular pasta which contains gluten, but you can swap in gluten-free pasta alternatives to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make American Goulash vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or sautéed mushrooms to enjoy a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is American Goulash?

The traditional recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for a kick of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of American Goulash on a busy night. This recipe balances simplicity with heartfelt comfort, making it your go-to for quick dinners that feel like home. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

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