American Goulash

American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any gathering. This one-pot dish combines tender ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and hearty macaroni for a filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a timeless favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s an ideal way to use pantry staples while creating a satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and only one pot needed, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a deliciously comforting flavor profile.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and pasta, making it a hit for family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables or spices you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Leftover Friendly: This goulash tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make American Goulash efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large saucepan: Ensures you have enough space to sauté ingredients and simmer the goulash without overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps mix ingredients evenly.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements guarantee consistent flavors every time you make this dish.

Ingredients

This American Goulash is pure comfort food made all in one pot. Made with simple ingredients: ground beef, canned tomatoes, and macaroni.

For the Goulash

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 15 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta, cooked (measured before cooking)
• grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add 1 pound of ground beef.
2. Include 1 small diced onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
3. Cook until the meat is browned and crumbled; drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Stir in:
– A 15 ounce can of crushed tomatoes (with juices).
– An 8 ounce can of tomato sauce.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Season with:
– 1 teaspoon of sugar,
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning,
– Salt and pepper to taste.

Mix well and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat to low:
– Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 5: Incorporate Pasta

Add in:
– 1 cup of cooked elbow macaroni pasta.
Stir thoroughly and allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot:
– Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before enjoying!

How to Serve American Goulash

American Goulash is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, serving suggestions can enhance the meal’s experience.

Classic Serving

• With Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and richness.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping into the goulash sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the goulash.

Salad Pairing

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the warmth of the goulash.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the dish nicely.

How to Perfect American Goulash

To make your American Goulash truly unforgettable, follow these simple tips to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic add depth to the dish, enhancing its overall aroma and taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; you can always add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your macaroni is cooked al dente; this prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color—just sauté them along with the ground beef.
• Use Low-Sodium Options: To control sodium levels, opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes and broth without sacrificing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for American Goulash

Serving side dishes alongside American Goulash can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these are perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty goulash.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings seasonal sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent side for scooping up goulash.
6. Crispy Fried Zucchini: Lightly breaded zucchini slices offer a delicious crunch that complements the softness of goulash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing American Goulash, a few common pitfalls can hinder your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor integration.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef is crucial for developing rich flavors. Don’t rush this process; take your time to get a nice color on the meat.
• Not seasoning adequately: Be generous with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to ensure the dish is well-seasoned and balanced.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure you cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente. It will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce, so avoid mushy pasta.
• Ignoring simmering time: Allowing your goulash to simmer is essential for melding flavors. Don’t skip this step for a more robust taste.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store American Goulash in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing American Goulash

• Freeze goulash in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer goulash to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comforting one-pot dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family meals.

Can I customize my American Goulash?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or swap out the protein for chicken or turkey based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of American Goulash?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Is American Goulash healthy?

This dish can be part of a balanced diet when made with lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables, providing essential nutrients while being satisfying.

Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

Conclusion

American Goulash is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great meal option for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, it’s easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Give this classic recipe a try—your family will love it!