American Goulash: A Classic One-Pot Comfort Food

American Goulash is the kind of meal that proves simple ingredients can create something deeply satisfying. Unlike Hungarian goulash, which is traditionally centered around paprika-seasoned meat and often served as a stew, American goulash is a hearty one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, onions, and plenty of savory seasoning.

It is inexpensive, filling, easy to prepare, and especially convenient for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in one pot, allowing the pasta to cook directly in the flavorful tomato and beef mixture. The result is tender macaroni coated in a rich, savory sauce with little bites of seasoned ground beef throughout.

Why You’ll Love This American Goulash

There are plenty of reasons this old-fashioned dish continues to appear on family dinner tables. It requires basic pantry staples, doesn’t demand complicated cooking techniques, and can easily be adjusted according to what you already have in the kitchen.

The combination of browned beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, Italian-style herbs, and tender elbow macaroni creates a comforting flavor that tastes like something that has been simmering for hours. A little shredded cheese stirred in at the end makes it even more indulgent.

Another advantage is that American Goulash makes a generous amount, making it useful for families or for preparing leftovers. The flavors also tend to deepen after resting, so it can be just as enjoyable the next day.

Ingredients

For approximately 6 servings, you will need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juices
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the remaining ingredients.

Having everything prepared beforehand makes the cooking process much easier because this recipe moves quickly once the beef has been browned.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.

Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink.

If there is a large amount of excess grease in the pot, carefully drain it. Leave a small amount behind because it adds flavor to the onions and sauce.

3. Cook the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the browned beef.

Cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften and turn translucent.

The onion adds natural sweetness and creates an aromatic foundation for the dish.

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