American Goulash: A Cozy, One-Pot Classic

American Goulash is the kind of meal that proves comfort food does not need to be complicated. Made with tender ground beef, onions, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and a generous amount of seasoning, this hearty one-pot dish comes together with simple pantry ingredients and plenty of flavor.

Although its name is borrowed from Hungarian goulash, American goulash is a distinctly American dish. Instead of the slow-cooked chunks of meat and paprika-forward sauce associated with Hungarian goulash, the American version is more like a savory tomato-and-beef pasta casserole prepared conveniently on the stovetop.

It is inexpensive, filling, family-friendly, and especially satisfying on a chilly evening. Best of all, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all those delicious savory flavors while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Why You’ll Love This American Goulash

There are plenty of reasons this recipe has remained a favorite in American home kitchens:

• One-pot preparation: Everything cooks in the same pot.
• Budget-friendly: Ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes make an economical meal.
• Easy ingredients: Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry.
• Comforting and filling: Pasta and beef make this a substantial dinner.
• Great for leftovers: The flavors become even more developed after resting.
• Easy to customize: You can adjust the seasonings, vegetables, cheese, and meat to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For approximately 6 servings, gather:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14–15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juices
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

For extra flavor, you can also add a small pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your seasonings.

Having everything ready is especially useful with a one-pot recipe because several ingredients are added in quick succession.

If you are using freshly shredded cheese for the topping, prepare that as well.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

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

Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.

If there is a large amount of excess fat in the pot, carefully drain some of it before continuing.

Tip: Don’t constantly move the beef around. Letting it sit against the hot surface for short periods helps it develop better browning and deeper flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the browned beef.

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

The onion adds sweetness and depth to the tomato-based sauce, while also giving the dish a more developed savory flavor.

Step 4: Add the Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste.

Cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly.

This brief cooking time helps release the aroma of the garlic and lightly caramelizes the tomato paste, creating a richer foundation for the sauce.

Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic can make the entire dish taste bitter.

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