American Goulash: A Hearty One-Pot Classic Packed with Comfort and Flavor

American Goulash is a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. Unlike the traditional Hungarian goulash, which is a slow-cooked beef stew seasoned with paprika, the American version is a hearty one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and a blend of simple seasonings. It is affordable, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Its rich tomato-based sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef create a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Because everything cooks in one pot, cleanup is quick, making it an ideal recipe for home cooks of all skill levels.

Why American Goulash Is So Popular

American Goulash has remained a staple in many kitchens because it combines pantry-friendly ingredients into a complete meal. The recipe is highly adaptable—you can add vegetables, adjust the spices, or include cheese for an extra layer of richness. It also stores well, making it excellent for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it is evenly browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This helps caramelize the paste, creating a deeper, richer tomato flavor.

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the seasonings coat the meat and vegetables evenly.

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