American Goulash is a cozy, satisfying dish that brings back nostalgic flavors from my childhood. This one-pot wonder combines tender pasta, hearty beef, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. With many successful rounds of cooking, I’ve refined this recipe to ensure it’s a hit every time.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to whip up American Goulash:
- Delicious Flavor: The savory blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a comforting taste that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from vegetables, this dish can be a complete meal in one pot.
- Convenience: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy family or relax after dinner.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or switch up the spices for variety, making it perfect for any palate.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If there’s any left, it stores well for quick lunches throughout the week!
As a busy home cook, I love this recipe for its simplicity and the way it brings my family together over a warm meal.
Recipe Overview
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Cooking method: Stovetop, in one large pot
This easy-going recipe utilizes a single pot to both brown the beef and simmer the pasta, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
My Experience Making This Recipe
In my journey of perfecting American Goulash, I discovered how critical depth of flavor is. Initially, I skimped on browning the beef, which left the dish lacking complexity. After a few trials, I found that taking the time to sear the meat helped develop that delicious umami flavor.
How to Make American Goulash
To make American Goulash, start by browning ground beef in a large pot, which lays the foundation of flavor. Next, you’ll throw in onions and garlic, followed by your tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Finally, add elbow macaroni and water, letting everything simmer until the pasta is perfectly tender. Expect a comforting aroma to fill your kitchen as it cooks!
Expert Tips for Success
- Sear the Meat Well: Don’t rush browning the ground beef—allow it to caramelize for deeper flavor.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce with no added sugar for the best taste.
- Stir Occasionally: When cooking the pasta, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your goulash as it simmers and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper for your preference.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve American Goulash
Serve your goulash in deep bowls, topped with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or simply a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of water to help maintain its original texture.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a mix of diced mushrooms and other veggies.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Goulash: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a creamy goulash.
Nutritional Highlights
American Goulash is full of protein from the ground beef, making it filling and satisfying. Each serving can provide a good dose of fiber, especially if paired with whole-grain pasta. Keep in mind that it contains gluten from the pasta and dairy if cheese is added.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too Dry: If your goulash ends up drying out, next time make sure to add enough liquid upfront or monitor your cooking time more closely.
- Pasta Mushy: Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente; it will continue to soften in the residual heat after removing from the stove.
- Lack of Flavor: Always taste and adjust seasoning. Sometimes, a pinch of salt can elevate the entire dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well and can be a lighter alternative. -
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and add the pasta in the last 30 minutes. -
What can I serve with goulash?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement goulash perfectly. -
How do I know when it’s done?
The goulash is ready when the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded nicely together, typically after about 20 minutes of simmering. Enjoy your cooking!
American Goulash
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A cozy one-pot dish combining tender pasta, hearty beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Shredded cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the elbow macaroni and water; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
Allow goulash to rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors. For variety, consider adding vegetables or adjusting spices.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American