Classic American Goulash

by

Description

Classic American Goulash is a comforting, one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Unlike Hungarian goulash, this American version is a simple, budget-friendly weeknight meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. Perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients For Classic American Goulash

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 2 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)

  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook Beef & Veggies: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

  2. Add Aromatics: Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.

  3. Build Sauce: Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

  4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes to blend flavors.

  5. Cook Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook until pasta is tender (about 12–15 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

  6. Finish & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Optionally, stir in cheese or sprinkle on top before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.

  • Add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Tips

  • Don’t overcook pasta; check a few minutes early.

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.

  • If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.

  • Great for freezing – just undercook pasta slightly before freezing.

Servings

  • Makes 6 servings

Nutritional Info (per serving, without cheese – approx.)

  • Calories: 350

  • Protein: 22g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 40g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sodium: 750mg

Benefits

✅ Budget-friendly family meal
✅ Protein-packed and filling
✅ One-pot, minimal cleanup
✅ Easy to customize with veggies or spices
✅ Great for meal prep and leftovers

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I prevent soggy pasta in leftovers?
A: Slightly undercook pasta before storage, and add a splash of broth when reheating.

Q: Is this the same as Hungarian goulash?
A: No, Hungarian goulash is a paprika-based stew with beef chunks. This is an American pasta dish.

Q: Can I make it cheesy?
A: Absolutely! Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan before serving.

Leave a Comment