American Goulash is a classic comfort dish that combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce in a one-pot meal. It's a perfect dinner for busy weeknights or when you're craving something warm, filling, and simple to make. This recipe has been loved by families for generations, and the best part? It's incredibly easy to prepare! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will walk you through every step to ensure your American Goulash comes out perfect every time. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious meal. Keep reading for all the tips and tricks you'll need to master American Goulash!
What is American Goulash?
American Goulash, sometimes referred to as “Slumgullion” or simply “Goulash,” is a one-pot dish that consists of ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings. Unlike Hungarian Goulash, which is a beef stew seasoned with paprika and includes vegetables like potatoes, American Goulash is much simpler and quicker to prepare. The flavors are hearty and comforting, making it a staple in many American households. It’s the kind of dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or enjoying as leftovers the next day.
Ingredients List for American Goulash
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s go over the basic ingredients you’ll need to create a traditional American Goulash. These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store and may already be in your pantry.
- Ground beef (1-1.5 pounds) – The base protein for the dish. You can use ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
- Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds flavor and depth to the goulash.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of a kick.
- Green bell pepper (1 medium, diced) – Adds texture and a slight sweetness to the dish.
- Canned diced tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 oz each) – Provides the tomato base for the sauce.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Thickens and enhances the tomato flavor.
- Beef broth (2 cups) – Adds a savory richness and helps cook the pasta.
- Elbow macaroni (2 cups) – The pasta of choice, which absorbs the sauce and creates a satisfying texture.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon) – Provides a tangy, umami flavor that deepens the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon) – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds extra flavor.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) – A nod to the dish’s Hungarian origins, adding warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving) – Adds a creamy, cheesy finish to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations for American Goulash
One of the great things about American Goulash is how adaptable it is. Here are some popular substitutions and variations you can try:
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a leaner version. You could also use Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils instead of ground beef. Substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth.
- Different Pastas: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
- Add More Veggies: Throw in diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamier, richer dish, or top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and potential variations, let’s move on to the actual cooking process. This American Goulash recipe is simple and straightforward, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the vegetables: To the cooked beef, add the diced onions, garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened.
- Incorporate the tomatoes: Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, and add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the pasta: Once the mixture is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Stir, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Taste and adjust: Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If you like it spicier, add more paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If it's too thick, you can add a little more broth to thin it out.
- Optional step - Add cheese: If you’re a fan of cheesy goulash, you can stir in some shredded cheddar cheese at this point, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
- Serve: Your American Goulash is now ready to serve!
How to Cook American Goulash: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap, here’s a simplified version of the steps to cook this delicious dish:
- Brown the ground beef.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and green peppers.
- Add tomatoes and tomato sauce.
- Pour in broth and seasonings.
- Stir in pasta and simmer until tender.
- Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the fat: If you skip draining the excess fat from the ground beef, the dish can become too greasy.
- Overcooking the pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness after 15 minutes.
- Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland goulash. Make sure to taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
American Goulash is a simple, rustic dish, but there are still ways to elevate its presentation. Here are a few ideas:
- Use fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread: Pair your goulash with some warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each serving, allowing it to melt slightly before digging in.
How to Serve American Goulash
American Goulash is typically served as a standalone dish because it's hearty enough to be a complete meal. However, you can enhance the meal by serving it with sides like:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Steamed vegetables for added nutrients.
Presentation Ideas for American Goulash
While American Goulash is more of a casual, family-style dish, you can still get creative with how you serve it:
- Individual bowls: Serve the goulash in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and cheese on top.
- Rustic serving platter: For a family-style meal, serve the goulash in a large, rustic serving dish with bread or rolls on the side.
- Garnish with dollops of sour cream: Add a spoonful of sour cream on top of each serving for a creamy contrast to the tomato base.
American Goulash Recipe Tips
- Meal prep: American Goulash is a great recipe for meal prep. Make a big batch, and store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce, as the pasta tends to absorb liquid as it sits.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze American Goulash?
A: Yes! American Goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a little added broth or water.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells.
Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Brown the beef first, then transfer all the ingredients (except the pasta) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal in a single pot. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a dish that anyone can master. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of this timeless classic!
PrintAmerican Goulash Recipe
This classic American Goulash recipe features ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce for a comforting meal. Perfect for weeknights, it's easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ideal for families, this one-pot meal combines all ingredients in a single dish for minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- To make it healthier, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. It also freezes well.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the amount of salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 760mg
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