Easy American Goulash Recipe: Comfort in a Pot
A hearty meal that comes together effortlessly for satisfying weeknight dinners.
There is nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of American goulash. Hearty, filling, and beloved by families across the country, this one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and melty cheddar cheese for a dinner that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. Ready in only 30 minutes, this easy goulash recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings alike.
What Is American Goulash?
Goulash is a classic dish with roots in Hungarian cuisine, but the American version has evolved into its own hearty, comforting staple. While Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked stew featuring chunks of beef and paprika, American goulash is a fast, skillet meal with ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and plenty of seasoning. It’s a favorite for its rich flavor, easy preparation, and ability to feed a crowd.
- Main Ingredients: Ground beef, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, pasta (typically elbow macaroni), cheddar cheese, and seasonings.
- Preparation: Everything cooks together in a single pot, making both the cooking and the cleanup delightfully simple.
Why You’ll Love This Goulash Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: Dinner is ready in just about 30 minutes—a lifesaver for busy evenings.
- One-Pot Meal: No juggling multiple pans or burners, everything goes into a single dutch oven or large pot.
- Family-Friendly: The savory flavors and cheesy finish appeal to all ages.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday pantry ingredients and feeds a crowd.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different veggies, seasonings, or cheeses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp. | For sautéing onions and garlic |
| Onion | 1, chopped | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, chopped | Adds aromatic flavor |
| Ground beef | 1.5 lb. | Protein base of the dish |
| Beef broth | 1 (15 oz.) can | Deepens flavor and cooks pasta |
| Tomato sauce | 1 (15 oz.) can | Creates a rich sauce |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (15 oz.) can | Provides texture and tang |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp. | Adds umami and depth |
| Seasoned salt | 1 tsp. | Seasoning |
| Dried Italian seasoning | 2 tsp. | Herbaceous notes |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp. | Classic goulash spice |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp. | Balance and kick |
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups | Heart of the dish |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, grated | 1 cup | Creamy finish |
| Chopped parsley, chives, or dill (optional) | To garnish | Freshness and color |
How to Make American Goulash: Step-By-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, draining any excess fat as needed.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Combine well.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir well, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook on a gentle boil for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or dill for a burst of color and flavor, if desired.
Tips for the Best Goulash
- Use lean ground beef for a less greasy dish; drain any excess fat after browning.
- Fresh herbs add brightness—try parsley, dill, or chives for garnish.
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese variations: Swap in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy finish.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
What to Serve with Goulash
American goulash is a complete meal in itself, but a few simple sides can make it even more satisfying:
- Buttered bread or rolls: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
- Simple green salad: Balances the richness with something crisp and fresh.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables: Such as green beans, carrots, or peas.
- Pickles or sauerkraut: For a tangy, traditional touch.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
- Make-Ahead: Goulash can be made in advance and reheated—the flavors often improve as they meld overnight.
- Refrigerate: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Allow goulash to cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What others are reading
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Ground meat: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a twist on tradition.
- Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth, add lentils for extra bulk, and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-free version: Opt for gluten-free pasta and double-check broth and seasoning labels.
- Extra veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Paprika boost: Traditional Hungarian goulash is famed for paprika; add more for deeper color and flavor.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Saturated Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 388 kcal | 20 g | 22 g | 24 g | 10 g | 918 mg |
(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on brands and exact ingredient proportions.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make goulash ahead of time?
Yes. Goulash is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavor deepens after a night in the fridge. Simply reheat gently and add a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I freeze goulash?
Absolutely. Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Is American goulash the same as Hungarian goulash?
No. American goulash is a one-pot pasta and beef dish, while Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked, paprika-rich stew, usually made with chunks of beef and vegetables.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Any small pasta shape such as shells, rotini, or penne will work, but elbow macaroni is classic.
How do I avoid mushy pasta in goulash?
Add the macaroni only when the sauce is simmering, and cook until just al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
This goulash is flavorful but not spicy. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the onions.
More Hearty Pasta Recipes You’ll Love
- Cowboy Spaghetti – A robust beef and tomato spaghetti with bacon and cheese.
- One-Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup – Creamy soup packed with cheese tortellini and shredded chicken.
- Sheet Pan Gnocchi – Crispy gnocchi roasted with vegetables for an easy tray-bake dinner.
- Shrimp Pesto Pasta – Bright, fresh flavors in a fast one-pan pasta.
- Meatball Casserole – Cheesy, saucy, and filling, perfect for a family meal.
Final Notes
Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or discovering the joy of American goulash for the first time, this recipe delivers big on comfort, ease, and flavor. Keep it classic or make it your own with a few creative twists—and enjoy a hearty, happy meal with everyone gathered around the table.
References
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