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Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the beef broth or water to loosen the sauce, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- Add the elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta) to the sauce, stirring to combine. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt into the dish for extra cheesy goodness.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Serve American Goulash with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Pair it with some crispy garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted broccoli or zucchini would complement the dish and add extra veggies to your meal.
Why American Goulash is a Perfect Family Meal:
- Affordable: Made with common ingredients that are often found in most kitchens, American Goulash is budget-friendly without compromising on flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal fast.
- Kid-Friendly: The pasta and cheesy, tomato-based sauce make it a big hit with kids, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you want to add them to the mix.
- Leftover Friendly: American Goulash stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and makes excellent leftovers, meaning you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner again the next day.
Tips for the Best American Goulash:
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
- Make It Cheesy: For extra creaminess, mix in some cream cheese or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Conclusion:
American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something cozy. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences, making it a great dish to adapt over time.
Try this recipe next time you want a satisfying, no-fuss meal the whole family will enjoy. You’ll find yourself coming back to this classic time and time again. 🍽️🍝
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