The Ultimate American Goulash Recipe: One-Pot Comfort Food at its Finest

Hello foodies! Are you looking for a cozy comforting meal that is easy to make and equally delicious? Well, look no further, because American Goulash is here to save the day! This One-Pot wonder is a classic dish that has been passed down for generations and a staple in many American households. A rich and hearty tomato-based sauce loaded with ground beef, macaroni, and colorful vegetables – this dish is perfect for those nights when you feel like devouring something delicious and soul-warming.

The Ultimate American Goulash Recipe: One-Pot Comfort Food at its Finest

The best part about this dish is that not only is it delicious, but it is also incredibly easy to make, with only one pot to clean up after. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you do not have the time or energy to cook a complicated meal. This dish is absolutely a no-brainer. You can cook it in a Dutch oven or any large pot, and let it sit on the stove simmering away while you go about your evening.

American Goulash Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, American goulash surely tops the list. A wholesome one-pot meal that is effortless to make, and perfect for the colder months. This dish has a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will instantly make you feel at home.

What is American Goulash?

American goulash is a popular dish in the United States that originated from Hungarian Goulash. It is a hearty and Southern-style version of the traditional European dish; it is simpler and often made with inexpensive ingredients. This one-pot dish is packed with ground beef, onions, garlic, canned tomato sauce, and macaroni pasta. The dish has become an American staple known for its heartiness and flavor.

Ingredients Needed

When it comes to making the perfect American Goulash, you will need a few essential ingredients to get started. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz.)
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious and easy-to-prepare dish:

  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces. Cook until browned and crumbled.
  2. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté them until onions are tender and golden.
  3. Next, add in the can of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pot, stir to combine, then pour in the beef broth, salt, and black pepper into the mixture.
  4. Stir in the elbow macaroni pasta and add in your chosen veggies, (optional).
  5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the macaroni pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Add in the shredded cheese and stir until melted. Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh herbs.

American Goulash is a simple, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick and easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Try this recipe today, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite in many homes across America!

Tips and Variations

American goulash is a comfort food that is loved by many. This American classic dish has various tips and variations to make it even more delicious and unique. Here are some tips and variations that you can try to elevate your American goulash recipe experience:

Substitutions

One great thing about cooking is that you can always substitute ingredients to fit your liking. If you are not a fan of ground beef, you can opt for ground turkey or sausage instead. These alternatives are healthier options and still gives you the savory taste that you crave.

Moreover, macaroni pasta is a common ingredient in American goulash, but you can easily swap it for any type of pasta such as penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. You can mix and match your favorite pasta shape with your favorite protein to create a unique and scrumptious combination.

Slow Cooker Method

The slow cooker method is a fuss-free way of cooking American goulash. Simply brown the beef in a separate pan on the stove, then add it along with the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You can prep your meal in the morning, leave it to cook, and come home to a hearty, warm dinner.

The beauty of slow cookers is that they allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and depth of flavor in your dish. The slow cooker method is convenient for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Serving Suggestions

American Goulash is a complete meal in itself as it has all major food groups: protein, carbs, and vegetables. However, there are still ways to make it even more appetizing. Serve American goulash with some bread or cornbread for dipping. You can also top your dish with additional shredded cheese or fresh parsley for a pop of color.

The leftovers of American goulash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. You can use the leftovers for meal prep or have it for lunch the next day. To reheat, simply microwave or heat it up in a pot, add little water if the goulash seems dry.

In conclusion, these tips and variations will help elevate your American goulash recipe to the next level. It is a flexible dish that allows adaptations to fit your palate and preference. We hope you enjoy cooking and eating your personalized American goulash recipe.

Thanks for Enjoying Our American Goulash Recipe!

We hope you enjoyed this delicious and comforting American Goulash recipe as much as we did! This one-pot meal is perfect for those cozy nights in or for feeding a hungry crowd. Don’t forget to let us know what you think and share this recipe with your loved ones.

At any time, you can come back and explore more delicious recipes on our website. From classic dishes to new and exciting creations, we have something for every taste bud. We appreciate your support and hope to see you again soon. Keep cooking and enjoying the simple pleasures in life!

FAQ

1. What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comfort food dish made with ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce. It’s typically seasoned with herbs and spices, including paprika and garlic.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer in this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before reheating and serving.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

5. What sides go well with American Goulash?

Green beans, roasted vegetables, or a salad are great side dishes to serve with American Goulash.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe isn’t spicy but feel free to add a kick of heat with some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer.

7. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe.

8. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to this recipe.

9. Can I omit the cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

10. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker by browning the ground beef in a pan first, then adding all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cooking on low for 4-6 hours.

You May Also Like

About the Author: David Dunlap

Worked in restaurants for years before turning to food writing and has won multiple awards for the work, including more than a dozen awards.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *