American Goulash

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Classic American Goulash

American Goulash is the ultimate one-pot comfort food. Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash (which is more of a meat-and-paprika stew), the American version is a hearty, nostalgic weeknight favorite featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich, savory tomato sauce that comes together in a single pan.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

  • The Meat & Aromatics:
    • 1 lb lean ground beef
    • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • The Sauce & Seasoning:
    • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
    • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
    • 2 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    • $\frac{1}{2}$ tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
    • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • The Pasta & Cheese:
    • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or small shell pasta)
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, stirred in at the end for extra richness)
    • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent (about 6 to 8 minutes).
    • Drain any excess grease if needed.
  2. Add Aromatics:
    • Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Simmer the Sauce and Pasta:
    • Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
    • Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Cook Through:
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the delicious sauce.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Remove from heat. If you like it extra cozy and cheesy, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
    • Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tip: American Goulash tastes even better the next day as the pasta continues to soak up the savory tomato sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days!
Would you like a nice, crusty garlic bread recipe to serve alongside this comforting bowl of goulash?

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