If you’re craving a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, then you absolutely must try this American Goulash Recipe. It’s a beautifully simple combination of tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato sauce, and hearty ground beef, all jazzed up with Italian seasoning and paprika that give it a warm, inviting flavor. This dish feels like a hug on a plate — perfect for busy weeknights but special enough to share with family or friends. Trust me, once you make this American Goulash Recipe, it will quickly become one of your easy go-to meals that everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this American Goulash Recipe lies in its simple, familiar ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and comfort. Each adds something unique, whether it’s the juiciness of the diced tomatoes or the creamy melt of cheddar cheese that finishes the dish with a perfect gooey touch.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to start your base, giving your onions a lovely caramelized sweetness.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and depth of flavor when softened.
- Garlic, minced: Three cloves perk up the dish with aromatic notes that awaken the palate.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty, savory backbone of the goulash, providing rich protein and texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick to keep each bite interesting.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of herbs to give the sauce that irresistible Italian-American flair.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Lends a smoky sweetness that anchors the sauce beautifully.
- Tomato sauce (15 oz can): Forms the luscious, smooth base of the goulash’s sauce.
- Diced tomatoes with juices (15 oz can): Adds chunky texture and fresh bursts of tomato flavor.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Boosts the richness and deepens the tomato essence.
- Beef broth or water (2 cups): Keeps everything moist and infuses subtle savory notes as the pasta cooks.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni (1 1/2 cups): The classic pasta shape that holds onto every bit of sauce for a perfect bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): When melted in, it creates a creamy finish to the goulash.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herby pop of color and flavor on top.
How to Make American Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or deep skillet. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant — that’s the foundation for your flavor. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma. Next comes the star of the show: ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with your spoon so it cooks evenly. Season with salt and pepper here to start building the dish’s savory layers. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, don’t hesitate to drain it for a cleaner, leaner result.
Step 2: Create the Sauce Mixture
Once the beef is browned and your aromatics are perfect, it’s time to stir in the Italian seasoning and paprika. These spices are game changers, giving the goulash its warm, comforting personality. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, the concentrated tomato paste, and beef broth or water. Bring everything to a gentle boil to combine all those gorgeous flavors and get the sauce bubbling with promise.
Step 3: Add Macaroni and Simmer
Now stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni straight into your sauce mixture. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let this gently simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and has soaked up all those tomatoey, beefy flavors.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Rest
If you’re adding cheddar cheese, sprinkle it in now and stir until it melts fully and folds into the sauce like a creamy dream. This cheese step is what takes the American Goulash Recipe from hearty to downright irresistible. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes once off the heat. This helps everything to thicken slightly and settle, giving you the best texture for serving.
How to Serve American Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds that bright touch of color and fresh herbal flavour that contrasts beautifully with the rich, saucy pasta. If you love cheese, an extra sprinkle of sharp cheddar or even some grated Parmesan can elevate each bowl to something special.
Side Dishes
This American Goulash Recipe is a hearty all-in-one meal, but if you want to add a fresh note, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables would complement the dish perfectly. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make fabulous companions, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this goulash in small oven-safe ramekins topped with a bit more cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. It’s like a personal baked pasta surprise! Alternatively, you can spoon the goulash over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting mash-up that’s sure to delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and taste even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
Freezing
This American Goulash Recipe freezes very well. Just cool it completely and freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the goulash gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully for a lighter version of this American Goulash Recipe. Just follow the same method, and the dish will be just as satisfying.
What if I don’t have elbow macaroni? Can I use another pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or even penne. The cooking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers.
Can I add vegetables to the American Goulash Recipe?
Definitely! Adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini along with the onions adds extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them in step one before adding the beef.
Is this dish spicy?
Nope, it’s very mild and comforting. However, you can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time so the pasta doesn’t overcook during simmering.
Final Thoughts
This American Goulash Recipe is truly one of those delightful meals that feels like home in every bite. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly satisfying, and flexible enough to suit your pantry and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed the family, give this recipe a try — I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
American Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
American Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring tender elbow macaroni cooked in a rich tomato and ground beef sauce, seasoned with Italian herbs and paprika. This easy stovetop dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be customized with optional cheese and vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pot if needed.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the macaroni and simmer: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Add cheese and rest: If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, lighter version.
- For extra nutrition and flavor, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions during the initial sauté step.
- This dish stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
