Nana’s Classic American Goulash

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Description:
Nothing trumps my nana’s version of this dish! A rich, comforting one-pot meal made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a robust tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients For Nana’s Classic American Goulash

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 2 cups beef broth (or water)

  • 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • Optional: ½ tsp paprika or crushed red pepper for a kick

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Beef:
    In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

  2. Add Onion & Garlic:
    Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute.

  3. Add Sauces & Spices:
    Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).

  4. Add Broth & Pasta:
    Pour in the beef broth and stir in the elbow macaroni. Bring everything to a boil.

  5. Simmer:
    Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.

  6. Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips:

  • Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy version.

  • Let it rest 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

  • Great for leftovers – flavors get even better the next day!

Servings:

  • Makes about 4–6 servings.

Nutritional Info (per serving – approx.):

  • Calories: 390

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbs: 32g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 780mg

(May vary depending on ingredients used)

Benefits:

  • Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

  • Budget-friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients.

  • Quick & Easy: One-pot and ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Meal Prep Hero: Tastes even better the next day!

Q&A:

Q: Can I freeze this goulash?
A: Yes! Let it cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Definitely – swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth.

Q: Why is it called “American Goulash”?
A: Unlike the Hungarian version (which is more of a stew), American Goulash is a pasta-based dish developed in the U.S., especially popular in the Midwest.

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