American Goulash: A Hearty One-Pot Comfort Food Classic

American Goulash is the kind of comforting, satisfying meal that turns simple pantry ingredients into a warm and flavorful dinner. Made with ground beef, tender pasta, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and plenty of seasoning, this one-pot dish is hearty enough for the whole family while remaining easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Unlike Hungarian goulash, which is traditionally built around chunks of meat and paprika, American goulash is a distinctly American comfort-food dish. Its combination of ground beef, macaroni, and tomato-based sauce makes it especially popular as an inexpensive, filling family meal.

The best part is that everything comes together in one pot, allowing the pasta to cook directly in the savory tomato sauce. This not only saves dishes but also gives the pasta plenty of opportunity to absorb the flavors of the beef, tomatoes, herbs, and seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This American Goulash

This recipe is especially appealing when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

• One-pot meal: Less cleanup and fewer dishes.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
• Family-friendly: Mild, savory flavors pair well with pasta and cheese.
• Filling: Ground beef and pasta make this a substantial meal.
• Easy to customize: Add vegetables, extra cheese, or more seasoning according to your preference.
• Great leftovers: The flavors develop even more after the dish rests.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

• 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, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

Optional Additions

For extra flavor or texture, you can also add:

• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Extra shredded cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, chop the onion and, if you’re using one, the bell pepper. Mince the garlic and measure out the seasonings, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and pasta.

Having everything ready makes the cooking process much easier because the ingredients can be added quickly as the dish develops.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot 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 browned and no longer pink.

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

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the browned beef.

Cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften. If you’re using diced bell pepper, add it at this stage as well.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic burn because it can become bitter.

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