American Goulash

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly without fuss, this Easy Weeknight American Goulash recipe is about to become your new go-to. American Goulash blends ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned with familiar spices to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers classic comfort flavors with a straightforward approach that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Speedy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Comforting Flavors: Savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and tender noodles create a truly nostalgic taste.
• Family Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike enjoy, ideal for family dinners.
• Budget Conscious: Made with affordable pantry staples, it offers big flavor without breaking the bank.
• Flexible Ingredients: Easy to adapt with what you have on hand or dietary requirements.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients list is refreshingly straightforward, focusing on pantry essentials that build the classic American Goulash flavor profile. Each element adds its own unique texture, taste, and vibrancy to the dish.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a rich, savory base without extra grease.
• Elbow Macaroni: Tender pasta that holds sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Canned Tomatoes: Crushed or diced, they bring acidity and body to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds smoothness and deep tomato flavor to the mix.
• Onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and aroma.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic amps up the savory notes.
• Beef Broth: Enhances depth and richness in the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend that complements the tomato base with herbs like oregano and basil.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into harmony.
• Cheese (optional): Shredded cheddar or mozzarella adds melty indulgence on top.

Variations for American Goulash

One of the best things about making American Goulash is how easy it is to tailor the recipe to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Try these variations to keep the dish fresh each time you make it.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for cooked lentils or meatless crumbles for a plant-based twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to liven up the flavors.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Use rotini, shells, or penne instead of elbow macaroni for a fun texture change.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in cream cheese or add a layer of mozzarella on top before baking for gooey goodness.

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until it starts to brown, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened and fragrant—this builds the flavor foundation.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Seasonings

Pour in the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in beef broth and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently to meld all the flavors together and thicken the sauce slightly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well to avoid sogginess, then combine it directly into the sauce once ready.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Stir the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and beef mixture. Mix thoroughly, then cook for another 5 minutes so the pasta soaks up the sauce, creating the perfect hearty consistency.

Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional) and Serve

If you love cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top, covering the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes until melted. Serve hot and enjoy the classic American Goulash experience.

Pro Tips for Making American Goulash

• Drain Grease Well: Removing excess fat from cooked beef keeps the dish from becoming greasy or heavy.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente to avoid mushy noodles once mixed with the sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brightens the flavors more than pre-minced varieties.
• Simmer to Thicken: Letting the sauce reduce slightly enhances richness and coats the pasta beautifully.
• Add Cheese Last: Stir or melt cheese on top just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve American Goulash

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over each serving for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that complement the rich tomato sauce.

Side Dishes

Crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or buttered breadsticks balance the hearty nature of American Goulash and add refreshing contrast to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese for a cozy presentation or layer it in a casserole dish and bake with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a different texture experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover American Goulash in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to keep flavors fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes really well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to retain texture and taste.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Is American Goulash the same as traditional Hungarian goulash?

No, American Goulash is a simplified, pasta-based stove-top dish using ground beef and tomato sauce, while Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked stew flavored with paprika and chunks of beef or pork.

Can I make American Goulash gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta varieties, and ensure all canned ingredients are gluten-free labeled.

How long does American Goulash keep in the fridge?

Properly stored in airtight containers, it will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

Combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary to replicate Italian seasoning’s flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, American Goulash holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Weeknight American Goulash recipe is everything you want in a cozy dinner that’s quick to make and packed with timeless flavors. It’s a true kitchen classic that welcomes creativity while always delivering satisfying comfort. Give it a try tonight—you’ll soon understand why it’s a beloved staple at dinner tables across the country!

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