American Goulash

American Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a dish that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. The rich aroma of simmering beef and tomatoes, combined with perfectly cooked macaroni, makes it a comfort food classic in my book.

Growing up, my grandmother would make a huge pot of American Goulash, and the entire house would fill with its savory scent. It was always a special occasion, a time when family would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a hearty, homemade meal. I’ve learned to recreate her special goulash and put my own YummyGet spin on it.

This American Goulash recipe is not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple to make. It’s the perfect low-stress dish for a weeknight dinner and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. My secret is adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavors – trust me, it makes all the difference! You can easily make this comforting meal for lunch as well.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

This American Goulash comes together with simple ingredients that are already in your pantry. The combination of ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and macaroni creates a symphony of flavors and textures. I love the way the cheddar cheese melts into the dish, adding a creamy richness that elevates it to another level. You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make American Goulash

This American Goulash recipe is easier than you think! First, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and spices. Simmer until the flavors meld, then stir in cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden. For a similar recipe, check out these cheesy mozzarella meatballs.

yasin

Hearty American Goulash

A comforting and classic American Goulash recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal. This dish combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce for a satisfying one-pot wonder.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef lean
• 1 medium Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce
• 6 oz Tomato Paste
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Dried Basil
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
• 1 lb Elbow Macaroni uncooked
• 1 tsp Salt or to taste
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper or to taste
• 1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded, for topping (optional)

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well to combine. Make sure the macaroni is submerged in the liquid. If not, add a little more beef broth or water.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
• Serve hot. Optionally, top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf while simmering and remove it before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for Making This American Goulash

Here are a few pro tips to help you create the perfect American Goulash every time:

• My Secret Trick: I always add a bay leaf while simmering the goulash. It infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste. Remember to remove it before serving!
• Browning the Beef: Make sure to thoroughly brown the ground beef before adding the other ingredients. This step is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor.
• Cheese Choice: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.

Fun Variations / Easy Substitutions for American Goulash

American Goulash is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to customize it to your liking:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Different Pasta: Use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or shells instead of elbow macaroni.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a tangy, creamy twist. For another twist, try these cowboy sliders.

What to Serve With American Goulash

American Goulash is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the goulash.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a healthy and colorful side.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides the perfect tang for the dish.

My tip: I always like to have a simple side salad with American Goulash because it’s a balanced meal that’s tasty and easy to clean up.

How to Store American Goulash

Proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and texture of your leftover American Goulash.

• Refrigerating: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the goulash in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

I always store the American Goulash in a glass container to preserve its flavors. Reheating it slowly brings the dish back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

American Goulash offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron, while tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. This is a great dish to include in a balanced diet for the family. You can also make a similar dish such as French Beef Bourguignon.

FAQs

Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the cooked macaroni and cheese before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to brown it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to American Goulash?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, carrots, or celery to the goulash for extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them when you brown the ground beef.

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, American Goulash is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare it a day or two in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more! Serve the dish with a side of Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a timeless classic for good reason. It’s a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a warm, delicious meal that will bring joy to your table.

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