Old-Fashioned Goulash (American Chop Suey / Beef Noodle Skillet)
There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of old-fashioned goulash. Known by different names like American Chop Suey or Beef Noodle Skillet, this dish is a classic one-pot meal built on simple ingredients, rich flavors, and pure nostalgia. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Unlike Hungarian goulash, which uses paprika and chunks of beef, this American version is centered around ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Let’s walk through how to make it step by step.
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (400g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (400g / 14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Method
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft and slightly translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
This step builds the flavor base of the entire dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.
Drain any excess fat if needed. Keeping too much fat can make the dish greasy.
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