American Goulash Soup: A Hearty, Cozy One-Pot Classic

American Goulash Soup is the kind of comforting meal that turns simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying dinner. With tender ground beef, soft pasta, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a flavorful blend of seasonings, this dish is warm, filling, and wonderfully easy to prepare.

Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash, American goulash is a distinctly American comfort food. It is closer to a hearty tomato-based pasta soup or stew, making it especially popular for busy weeknights and chilly evenings. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and plenty of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This American Goulash Soup is:

• Easy to make with everyday ingredients
• Budget-friendly and filling
• Made in one pot, so cleanup is simple
• Family-friendly with mild, familiar flavors
• Great for leftovers, as the flavors become even more developed after resting

Ingredients

For about 6 servings, you’ll need:

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

Step-by-Step Method

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.

Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

If there is a large amount of excess fat, carefully drain some of it before continuing. Leaving a small amount behind can help add flavor to the soup.

2. Add the Onion

Add the chopped onion directly to the cooked beef.

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

The onion adds a natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

3. Stir in the Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add the minced garlic and tomato paste.

Cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Cooking the tomato paste briefly helps deepen its flavor and gives the finished soup a richer tomato base.

4. Build the Tomato Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful browned bits left behind by the beef.

Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf.

Give everything a good stir.

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