Name: American Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 medium onion, chopped; 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups water or broth

Print Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? You might imagine a steaming bowl of American goulash, a dish that wraps you in warmth like a cozy blanket. This classic meal brings together tender pasta, hearty ground beef, and a symphony of seasonings that dance on your taste buds. alternative creamy dish The aroma wafting from the pot is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.

As I prepare to share this recipe, I can’t help but recall the countless family gatherings where American goulash took center stage. It was the kind of dish that brought everyone together, filling bellies and hearts alike. perfect side for goulash Whether it was a chilly winter night or a weekend potluck, American goulash was always there, ready to warm us up from the inside out.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful American goulash is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavors meld beautifully as it simmers, creating a comforting aroma that fills your home
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients!

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends in college; their delighted reactions were priceless! They devoured every last bite and begged for seconds—it became our go-to comfort food recipe for late-night study sessions.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while ensuring it’s flavorful and juicy as it cooks down.
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto the sauce perfectly; feel free to swap it for any pasta you have on hand.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; let it sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience; they add moisture and acidity that balance the richness of the meat.
Bell Peppers: Add chopped bell peppers for color and crunch; they bring freshness to each hearty bite!

For the Seasoning:

Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that enhances flavor without overpowering; use fresh garlic if you’re feeling adventurous!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds an Italian flair; adjust according to your taste preference.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash adds umami depth; it’s like giving your goulash a secret ingredient boost!
Salt & Pepper: Essential staples that elevate all the flavors—season generously but taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Brown the Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add in your ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned thoroughly—around 7-10 minutes should do it. Watch as those delicious juices mingle with the veggies.

Add the Pasta: Once your beef is browned, stir in elbow macaroni along with diced tomatoes (juice included), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and enough water or broth to cover everything by about an inch. Give it all a good stir!

Simmer Away: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it—stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns!

Add Final Touches: When pasta is cooked through, remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully! Serve hot with grated cheese on top if desired.

Now you’ve mastered American goulash! Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic while reminiscing about those family gatherings where laughter mixed with delicious aromas filled the air.

You Must Know

American Goulash is a one-pot wonder that saves time and effort in the kitchen
The delightful aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices fills your home, creating a comforting atmosphere
This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering warmth and nostalgia with each bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with onions, then add garlic for flavor. Once browned, stir in diced tomatoes and pasta. Simmer until the pasta is tender, ensuring everything melds beautifully together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your American Goulash! Swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Experiment with seasonings; a dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

The secret to rich flavor lies in simmering the goulash longer than you think
Don’t skip the cheese at the end; it brings everything together perfectly!
Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of gatherings where my friends would rave about how it tasted just like their grandma’s cooking—those moments are priceless and make every pot worth it!

FAQs

FAQ

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and spices. similar comforting pasta dish It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty.

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare American Goulash ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving for a quick meal that tastes freshly made.

What can I serve with American Goulash?

Pair American Goulash with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds an extra touch of deliciousness everyone will love! serve with crusty bread.