American Goulash Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that the whole family will love, this American Goulash recipe is a must-try! Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, American Goulash is a deliciously comforting one-pot dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. With savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to make the best American Goulash.

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What Is American Goulash?

American Goulash (also known as “American chop suey” in some regions) is a budget-friendly, one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash, which features slow-cooked chunks of beef in a paprika-spiced broth, American Goulash is simpler, quicker, and more like a beefy, tomato-pasta casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients List for American Goulash

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic American Goulash:

For the Goulash:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for umami flavor)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

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Substitutions and Variations

Want to make this American Goulash your own? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat options: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any small pasta like rotini, penne, or shells.
• Spice level: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dish.
• Vegetables: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to bulk up the dish with more veggies.
• Cheesy goulash: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist. Or, sprinkle it on top and melt under the broiler for a bubbly finish.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make a warm and comforting pot of American Goulash? Follow these simple steps to create a hearty meal in no time.

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How to Cook American Goulash: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the excess fat from the beef, then return it to the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

1. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper: Stir in the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Season the beef: Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine the spices with the beef.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

1. Stir in the tomatoes and sauces: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Mix everything together.
2. Add beef broth: Pour in the beef broth and toss in the bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Cook

1. Add the pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni (or other small pasta), ensuring it's submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
2. Check for seasoning: Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar (if desired) to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Add cheese (optional): For a cheesy twist, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese right before serving to make the dish creamy and rich.
2. Garnish and serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy. Check it a few minutes early to ensure it's cooked al dente.
2. Too much liquid: If the goulash is too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken.
3. Not tasting for seasoning: Since this dish is tomato-based, it can sometimes taste acidic. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings. A small amount of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

While American Goulash is a rustic, one-pot meal, you can still serve it with a little flair. Here are some ways to serve and present it:

How to Serve American Goulash

• Family-style: Serve the goulash straight from the pot for a warm, homey, and casual dinner. Add a sprinkle of parsley or grated cheese for a finished look.
• With sides: Pair the goulash with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to make it a complete meal.
• As leftovers: American Goulash reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas for American Goulash

• Use a cast-iron skillet: For a rustic look, you can serve the goulash straight from a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven.
• Top with cheese: Melt shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top for a bubbly, cheesy finish.
• Serve in bowls: Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

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American Goulash Recipe Tips

• Double the batch: American Goulash freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for an easy meal later. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Use a different pasta shape: If you’re out of elbow macaroni, use other small pasta like rotini, small shells, or ditalini.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, American Goulash is a great make-ahead dish! You can cook the entire recipe, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors often get better after sitting for a day, so it makes fantastic leftovers.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.

Can I freeze American Goulash?

Absolutely! Freeze the goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. You may need to add a bit more liquid to refresh the sauce.

What can I serve with American Goulash?

American Goulash is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce!

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Conclusion

This American Goulash recipe is the ultimate one-pot comfort food—simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option, and the combination of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce is sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal prep and just one pot to clean, this is a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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