American Goulash

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly and pleases the whole family, look no further than American Goulash. This beloved dish takes inspiration from traditional Hungarian flavors but adapts them into an accessible and flavorful casserole of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. American Goulash is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a warm, satisfying experience with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just trying it out for the first time, these easy American Goulash recipes will become your go-to for quick, tasty dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: American Goulash delivers cozy, nostalgic flavors that satisfy dinner cravings every time.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes, it’s budget-friendly and accessible.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when time is precious.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and a one-pot style make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Adaptable with various veggies, cheeses, and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Goulash recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and satisfying textures. Each component plays a key role—ground beef for richness, pasta for heartiness, and tomatoes for tangy depth.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base with balanced fat content to keep the dish moist.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice, perfectly sized to hold the sauce and create a satisfying bite.
• Tomato Sauce: Provides the rich, savory foundation—opt for a high-quality or homemade sauce for best flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and bright acidity that balances the dish beautifully.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that build depth and warmth in the sauce.
• Ground Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky touch, paying homage to traditional goulash flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight and balance the other flavors.
• Cheese (Optional): Sharp cheddar or mozzarella melt beautifully on top for a creamy finish.
• Beef Broth (Optional): Enhances moisture and builds a richer sauce if you prefer a less thick mixture.

Variations for American Goulash

One of the best parts about American Goulash is how easy it is to customize the dish to fit your pantry and palate. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils for a meatless twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder if you like a little heat in your goulash.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Cheesy Variation: Mix in cream cheese or Parmesan to create a richer and creamier sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to adapt the recipe for gluten intolerances.

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until fully browned and no pink remains, stirring occasionally to break it apart. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender and fragrant, infusing the base of your goulash with rich flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ground paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add beef broth now for a saucier consistency. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions, then drain thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to evenly coat everything. Let the combined dish simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)

Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover with a lid or foil until melted, about 3-5 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the gooey, delicious finish.

Pro Tips for Making American Goulash

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Drain pasta when it’s just al dente to avoid mushiness after simmering in the sauce.
• Use Quality Tomatoes: Fresh or high-quality canned tomatoes dramatically improve the taste.
• Drain Grease Thoroughly: Excess fat can weigh down the dish; drain the cooked beef carefully.
• Simmer Gently: Slow simmering helps flavors meld without drying out the sauce.
• Make It Ahead: American Goulash keeps well for meal prep and often tastes even better the next day.

How to Serve American Goulash

Garnishes

Finish your American Goulash with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of dried oregano for a pop of color and bright herby flavor. A dollop of sour cream can also add creamy richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty dish with simple green salads, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed broccoli or a crisp cucumber salad creates a fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve American Goulash in individual bowls with a generous cheese topping for a comfort-food vibe or bake it in a casserole dish with extra cheese layered on top for a satisfying crust. Adding roasted peppers on the side adds color and flavor diversity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

American Goulash freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover American Goulash on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Is American Goulash the same as Hungarian Goulash?

Not quite. While American Goulash gets inspiration from the Hungarian dish, it is a simplified, pasta-based meal with ground beef and tomato sauce, unlike the traditional stew made with chunks of meat and paprika.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though you may want to add a little extra seasoning to boost flavor.

What pasta works best in American Goulash?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but small pasta shapes like shells or rotini also work great because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

How long does American Goulash take to cook?

The entire recipe can be ready in about 25-30 minutes, making it an ideal quick dinner option.

Final Thoughts

American Goulash is an all-time favorite that combines hearty ingredients and simple preparation into one satisfying dish. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want to share a warm, filling meal with loved ones. Dive into these easy recipes and make American Goulash a permanent fixture in your dinner rotation—you won’t regret it!

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