Classic American-Style Goulash

by

Description

Classic American Goulash is a hearty, one-pot comfort food made with ground beef, macaroni pasta, tomatoes, and savory seasonings. Unlike Hungarian goulash, which uses chunks of beef and paprika, the American version is more like a tomato-based beef and pasta stew. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients For Classic American-Style Goulash

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

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

  • 3 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  2. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.

  4. Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil.

  5. Add macaroni pasta, stir well, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

  6. Taste and adjust seasonings. If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish.

  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

 Servings

  • Serves 6 people

  • Great for family dinners or next-day leftovers

 Notes

  • Can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for beef.

  • Use any short pasta (penne, rotini, shells) if macaroni isn’t available.

  • Add extra vegetables (carrots, zucchini, corn, mushrooms) for nutrition.

  • For a richer flavor, simmer longer before adding pasta.

 Tips

  • Cook pasta directly in the sauce for better flavor.

  • If reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.

  • Make it spicy with chili flakes or hot sauce.

  • For meal prep, keep pasta slightly undercooked so it doesn’t get mushy.

Nutritional Info (per serving, without cheese)

  • Calories: ~340 kcal

  • Protein: 21g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sodium: ~750mg

 Benefits

  • One-pot meal → Easy cleanup

  • Protein-rich → Satisfying and filling

  • Budget-friendly → Uses pantry staples

  • Kid-approved → Mild and cheesy flavor

  • Customizable → Add veggies, spice, or different meats

Q&A

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown beef first, then add all ingredients except pasta. Cook on LOW for 6 hours, stir in cooked pasta before serving.

Q: Can I freeze American goulash?
A: Yes, but freeze before adding pasta, as pasta can get mushy when thawed. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground beef (90/10), and add extra vegetables.

Q: Is it the same as Hungarian goulash?
A: No. Hungarian goulash is a paprika-based stew with beef chunks, while American goulash is a quick pasta-and-beef skillet dish.

Leave a Comment