American Goulash
There’s nothing quite like a big pot of hearty American Goulash to bring the family together at the dinner table. This dish is pure comfort—tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and simplicity, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights.
What makes American Goulash stand out is its rich, beefy flavor infused with garlic, onions, and a hint of smoky paprika. It’s affordable, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.
Q: Can I freeze American Goulash?
A: Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I add extra vegetables?
A: Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach make great additions.
What You Need to Make American Goulash
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Classic American Goulash
- Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onions and cook until softened. Drain any excess grease. - Build the Sauce
Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor. - Cook the Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked macaroni, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. - Add Cheese (Optional)
If using cheese, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the goulash into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Tips for the Best American Goulash
- Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a deeper flavor compared to garlic powder.
- Let It Simmer – Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors and thickens the dish.
- Make It Creamy – Stirring in cheese at the end adds a rich, creamy texture.
- Spice It Up – Add red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was the perfect comfort food! My family loved it, and it was so easy to make.” – Lisa
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made this for a potluck, and it was a hit! Simple ingredients but so much flavor.” – Mark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tastes just like my grandma used to make. This will be a regular in our home!” – Sarah
Printable Recipe
American Goulash
This Classic American Goulash is a warm, comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender elbow macaroni, hearty ground beef, and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce, this dish is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Beef and Onions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onions and cook until softened. Drain any excess grease.
Build the Sauce
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.
Cook the Pasta
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked macaroni, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Add Cheese (Optional)
- If using cheese, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the goulash into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
This classic American Goulash is a must-try! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to tag me if you make it.
