American Goulash Recipe

American Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that has been a beloved family favorite for generations. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, which is a slow-cooked stew rich with paprika, American Goulash is a simpler, one-pot dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the best American Goulash from scratch—packed with flavor and ready in under an hour!

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What Is American Goulash?

American Goulash, sometimes called "slumgullion" or simply "goulash," is a classic comfort food that combines ground beef, pasta (usually elbow macaroni), and a tangy tomato sauce. The dish is seasoned with simple spices like garlic, onions, and paprika, and often includes ingredients like bell peppers for extra flavor. Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash, which is more of a stew, American Goulash is a thicker, pasta-based dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This one-pot meal is loved for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to feed a crowd on a budget.

Ingredients List for American Goulash

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious and hearty pot of American Goulash:

• Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15).
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced.
• Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
• Bell Pepper: 1 green or red bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra flavor).
• Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni.
• Tomato Sauce: 2 cups of tomato sauce (about one 15-ounce can).
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained.
• Beef Broth: 2 cups of beef broth or water.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor).
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon of paprika (smoked paprika is a great option if you want a smoky flavor).
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried oregano.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping).
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish).

Substitutions and Variations for American Goulash

American Goulash is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork. You can also use a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
• Pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells.
• Tomato Products: Substitute crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce for the tomato sauce, depending on what you have available.
• Add Vegetables: Bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Cheese: If you want a creamier version, stir in a cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) toward the end for a cheesy twist.
• Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for American Goulash

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to make a delicious pot of American Goulash:

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato paste. Mix well to combine everything into a rich, flavorful sauce.

4. Season the Goulash

Add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the Liquid and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

7. Optional Cheese Topping

If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash and cover the pot for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Alternatively, serve the cheese on the side so everyone can add their desired amount.

8. Serve

Remove the goulash from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Cook American Goulash: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking American Goulash is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure it comes out perfect every time:

1. Brown the Beef Properly: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the dish. Be sure to cook it until it’s well-browned and drain any excess fat to keep the goulash from becoming greasy.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes before adding the pasta. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks in the broth. You want it tender, but not mushy, so stir occasionally and check for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
4. Adjust the Consistency: If the goulash is too thick, add a little more broth or water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making American Goulash

To make sure your goulash turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it’s important not to overcook it, or it will turn mushy. Stir occasionally and cook just until al dente.
• Using Too Little Liquid: The pasta absorbs a lot of liquid as it cooks, so make sure to add enough broth or water. If the goulash seems too thick, add a bit more liquid until you reach your desired consistency.
• Skipping the Seasoning: American Goulash relies on simple ingredients, so seasoning is key. Taste as you go and don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips for American Goulash

American Goulash is best served hot, fresh from the pot. Here are a few ways to elevate its presentation:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or a bit of grated Parmesan over each bowl for extra flavor and color.
• Sides: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the sauce. A side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the goulash.
• Family Style: Ladle the goulash into a large serving dish and place it at the center of the table for a family-style meal.

How to Serve American Goulash

American Goulash is a one-pot meal that’s hearty and filling on its own, but here are a few ideas for rounding out the meal:

• With Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the hearty goulash.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw on the side brings a refreshing crunch and tang to the meal.

Presentation Ideas for American Goulash

• Rustic Style: Serve the goulash in a large, rustic pot or Dutch oven for a family-style meal.
• Individual Bowls: Dish out the goulash into individual bowls, topped with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
• Cheesy Topping: After cooking, transfer the goulash to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden for an extra cheesy twist.

American Goulash Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: American Goulash tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if necessary.
• Freezer Friendly: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
• Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add more paprika for smokiness, or a splash of hot sauce for heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?
Yes! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, any short pasta will work. Try rotini, penne, or shells for a fun twist.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I reheat leftover goulash?
Reheat leftover goulash on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and loved by the whole family. With tender pasta, seasoned beef, and a rich tomato sauce all cooked in one pot, it’s the ultimate one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste, so feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Try this comforting dish today and enjoy the hearty, flavorful goodness of homemade American Goulash.

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