Name: American Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes undrained; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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American Goulash—a classic dish that seems to effortlessly combine comfort and nostalgia. It’s a hearty one-pot meal that fuses ground beef with macaroni, enveloped in a savory tomato sauce. The snippets of flavor come from Italian herbs and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, creating a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its robust flavor and simple preparation, you’ll find that serving a crowd or satisfying a family’s hungry bellies becomes a breeze with this dish.

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I remember the first time I made American goulash for my family. We had just a few simple ingredients on hand, and I knew I had to whip up something hearty yet easy. The sounds of sizzling beef filled the kitchen, and soon the aroma wrapped around us like a warm hug. Watching everyone gather at the table, eager to dig in, was a moment I’ll never forget. There’s just something special about this dish that draws loved ones together. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly option that will have everyone asking for seconds, this is the recipe for you!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make American Goulash
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
American Goulash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: A perfect blend of tangy tomatoes and savory spices tantalizes the taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant colors and melting cheese promise a comforting feast.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner, lunch leftovers, or even weekend gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: With flavors that kids adore, it’s a dinner-win for families.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 pounds ground beef: This forms the base of your goulash, adding protein and richness. You can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: This adds a smooth and tangy element to the dish. Look for no added sugar varieties if you prefer a cleaner flavor.
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: These contribute texture and a burst of flavor. Any brand will do, but fire-roasted diced tomatoes can give an extra kick.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: This helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes with a touch of sweetness; feel free to omit or use coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
2 cups beef broth: Provides depth and moisture. If you’re aiming for a lighter recipe, low-sodium chicken broth works well.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a layer of umami flavour. Vegetarian versions are available if you’re looking for a meatless option.
2 teaspoons soy sauce: This enhances the savory notes; use tamari if gluten-free.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for a classic Italian taste; you can create your own mixture using basil, oregano, and thyme.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an essential kick of flavor. Feel free to use fresh garlic if you’d prefer a bolder taste.
1 teaspoon onion powder: It teams up nicely with the garlic for a savory base.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness. Sweet or smoked paprika can be used based on preference.
1/2 teaspoon salt: To amplify all the vibrant flavors; adjust based on dietary needs.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle heat that rounds out the dish.
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni: A classic shape for soaking up all that juicy sauce. You can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This brings everything together with a creamy texture; use sharp or mild cheddar based on your flavor preference.

How to Make American Goulash

Brown the Beef: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook 1 1/2 pounds ground beef over medium-high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink. After browning, be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Add Tomato Products and Seasonings: To the skillet, add 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Macaroni: Stir in 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat down to medium-low, cover, and let everything simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet; it should be al dente when finished.
Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until it’s beautifully melted and seamlessly combined. Allow the goulash to stand for about 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and refrigerate them, where they should last for about 3 to 4 days. For extended storage, feel free to freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a few minutes. Note that freezing may alter the pasta’s texture slightly, so a quick splash of broth can help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

If your beef is too greasy, ensure to drain it well to prevent a slippery texture in your goulash.
Consider adding frozen mixed vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
Cooking the macaroni directly in the sauce infuses the pasta with flavor—don’t rinse it afterward!
Letting the dish rest before serving helps meld the flavors together nicely.
If you like a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering.

If you’re up for some creativity, try variations like adding cooked sausage or mix in some sautéed bell peppers for a twist. The beauty of American goulash lies in its versatility—make it your own!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! American goulash can be prepared ahead of time. Cook the entire dish, allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for prolonged storage. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Of course! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you enjoy. Penne or fusilli can work wonderfully, just adjust the cooking time according to pasta type to ensure it’s al dente.

Is American Goulash gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and check that the sauces you choose, like Worcestershire and soy sauce, are also gluten-free. There are several brands available now that cater to gluten-free diets.

What can I serve with American Goulash?

This dish stands well on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to round out your meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can elevate the presentation nicely too!

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