American Goulash: A Comforting and Easy Recipe

American Goulash: a symphony of savory flavors in a single pot, ready to transport you back to cozy childhood dinners! Forget complicated recipes and endless ingredients lists. This hearty and comforting dish is surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers a satisfying and deeply flavorful experience that the whole family will adore. Are you ready to rediscover a classic?

While the name might conjure images of traditional Hungarian Goulash, this Americanized version boasts a unique history, born from resourceful home cooks adapting Old World flavors to readily available ingredients. During the Great Depression, families sought affordable and filling meals, and American Goulash rose to the occasion. It became a staple, a testament to culinary ingenuity and the power of a good, honest meal.

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – tender macaroni, juicy ground beef, and a rich, tomato-based sauce that clings to every bite. The subtle sweetness of the tomatoes, balanced by savory spices and the satisfying chew of the pasta, creates a truly irresistible combination. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! A one-pot wonder, American Goulash minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making it the ideal weeknight dinner solution. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables

1. Get started by browning the ground beef. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want it nicely browned, but not burnt.
2. Drain off any excess grease. Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the pot. Leaving too much grease will make the goulash greasy, and we don’t want that!
3. Add the onion and garlic. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma should be amazing at this point!
4. Introduce the bell pepper. Add the chopped green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper is slightly softened. We want it to retain a little bit of its crunch.

Simmering the Goulash

1. Pour in the tomatoes. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The tomatoes form the base of our delicious sauce.
2. Add the beans and corn. Now, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and the drained corn to the pot. These add texture and heartiness to the goulash.
3. Pour in the beef broth. Pour in the beef broth. This will help to create a flavorful and slightly thinner sauce, perfect for cooking the macaroni later.
4. Season generously. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
5. Bring to a simmer. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is where the magic happens!

Cooking the Macaroni and Finishing the Goulash

1. Cook the macaroni. After the goulash has simmered for at least 30 minutes, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is submerged in the sauce.
2. Continue simmering until macaroni is tender. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer over low heat until the macaroni is cooked through and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the macaroni cooks evenly. You might need to add a little more beef broth if the sauce becomes too thick. The macaroni should absorb most of the liquid, leaving a thick and saucy goulash.
3. Check for doneness. Check the macaroni for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy. If it’s still too firm, continue simmering for a few more minutes, adding a little more beef broth if needed.
4. Adjust seasonings. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or any other spices to your liking.
5. Serve and enjoy! Serve the American goulash hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley also makes a nice addition.

Tips for the Best American Goulash

• Use good quality ground beef. The quality of the ground beef will affect the overall flavor of the goulash. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15) to avoid excessive grease.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni. Overcooked macaroni will result in a mushy goulash. Be sure to check the macaroni for doneness frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s tender.
• Adjust the spices to your liking. Feel free to adjust the spices to your personal preference. If you like a spicier goulash, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
• Add other vegetables. You can add other vegetables to the goulash, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Just add them along with the onion and bell pepper.
• Make it ahead of time. American goulash is a great make-ahead dish. It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Simply prepare the goulash as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freeze for later. Goulash freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations on American Goulash

• Spicy Goulash: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. You could also use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
• Vegetarian Goulash: Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Consider adding lentils for extra protein.
• Creamy Goulash: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier texture.
• Goulash with Different Meats: Try using ground turkey, ground pork, or even Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Slow Cooker Goulash: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the macaroni during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad. A simple green salad or a Caesar salad pairs well with American goulash.
• Serve with crusty bread. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Top with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley are all great toppings for American goulash.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This American Goulash recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a depth of flavor that belies its simplicity. Forget complicated cooking techniques and hours spent in the kitchen – this recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a fantastic option for feeding a large family, and even reheats beautifully for leftovers (if there are any!).

But the real magic lies in its versatility. While the recipe as written is a classic for a reason, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach would be delicious additions. For a richer flavor, try using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply substitute the meat with lentils or your favorite plant-based ground.

Serving suggestions are endless! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy coolness that complements the savory sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates the dish to another level. And for a complete meal, serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. You could even top it with some crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.

Beyond the variations and serving suggestions, the true beauty of this American Goulash lies in its ability to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. It’s a dish that transcends generations, a recipe passed down through families, and a reminder of simpler times. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, encourages conversation, and creates lasting memories.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a reliable, delicious, and adaptable dish that you’ll turn to time and time again. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe as written, or did you put your own spin on it? What were your favorite variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos, comments, and suggestions in the comments section below. I’m eager to see your creations and learn from your experiences. Let’s build a community of goulash lovers and share our passion for this classic American dish! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this American Goulash as much as my family and I do.